Metacarpal and metatarsal fractures in cattle.

Metacarpal and metatarsal fractures are usually amenable to external coaptation using a short or full limb polyurethane resinimpregnated knitted fiberglass fabric cast. The prognosis for long-term pain-free survival is excellent for closed fractures and fair to good for open fractures managed in the manner. Surviving animals generally are not lame and do not demonstrate significant limb deformity or limb shortening and generally become completely productive. Even considering the narrow profit margin involved when treating cattle with serious injuries, this method of fracture management is usually economically and technically feasible.