The tibia and fibula are the two bones that make up the lower rear leg. Fractures of these bones are commonly encountered in veterinary medicine. Because of the conformation of the lower rear leg, both bones, the tibia and fibula, usually fracture at the same time.

These fractures are usually the result of trauma, but can be caused by disease of the bone itself. They can occur in an immature bone (one that has not finished growing), or in a mature one, can be "open" or "closed" and can be "simple" or "comminuted." They can also involve either the tarsus (ankle) or knee joints.

Depending on the nature of the fracture and the age of the animal, different methods of repair may be indicated for each situation. Tibia and fibula fractures can have serious complications if not repaired, or if the repair fails, and can result in developmental abnormalities of the leg if the animal is immature when the injury occurred.

What to Watch For

Lameness

Abnormally positioned leg

Pain or inability to move

Diagnosis

A thorough physical examination and medical history are important in any illness or injury. Based on the results of the physical examination, additional tests may be recommended.. No laboratory tests are required to make the diagnosis

Chest radiographs

Complete orthopedic examination

Radiographs of the affected leg

Treatment

Emergency care for concurrent problems caused by the trauma is the most important part of treatment. After stabilization, additional treatment may include:

Treatment of concurrent soft-tissue injuries

Some fractures of the forearm can be managed with a cast or splint

Some tibia and fibula fractures require anesthesia and surgical stabilization of the bone fragments for the best results

Injectable analgesics (pain medications) are given to the animal while being treated in the hospital and may be continued orally once discharged from the hospital

Home Care and Prevention

Bring the animal to the veterinarian as soon as possible after any trauma for immediate attention. Try to prevent your pet from walking or moving too much. Prompt veterinary treatment is recommended. Do not attempt to place a splint or bandage on the leg unless profuse bleeding is occurring.

After surgical repair of the fracture, the animal must be kept restricted from activity for several weeks and the skin incision should be monitored while healing. A recheck with your veterinarian will occur in several weeks to evaluate how the bones are healing (with new radiographs), to monitor the animal's progress, and to make sure it is safe to increase the animal's activity level.

Many traumatic events are true accidents and thus unavoidable. Avoid the chance for motor vehicle trauma by keeping your cat indoors.