Variations in plasma trace-elements concentration during fracture healing in dogs.

The study was conducted on healthy Mongrel dogs. Fracture of Radius Ulna was inflicted with wire-saw. Subsequently repair was carried out using bone plates. Plasma Zinc concentrations decreased significantly from control values of 317.71 to 294.92 micrograms/dl at day one post-operatively and the values reached basal levels by 21st day. The concentrations of plasma Copper, Cobalt and Iron continued to decrease during the post-operative period. However, Manganese concentration increased significantly during the corresponding post operative period. Results indicate withdrawal of minerals from body reserves during bone repair.