Humeral Condyle Fractures

Where do they occur?

This is the name given to fractures that occur in the bones at the end of the humerus (known as condyles) that surround the proximal end of the ulna. The condyles aid in elbow stability during movement.

These fractures are commonly seen in young or growing pets (around 4 to 6 months old). They’re often the result of the animal jumping off something (like a table or chair), which leads to a sudden sharp force that drives upwards through the end of the humerus and causes the condyles to separate. It’s also fairly common for the lateral condyles to break away from the humerus completely.

The first sign that a fracture has occurred is usually lameness or non-weight bearing in the dog’s forelimb. Upon examination, pain in the elbow will be apparent during movement and/or palpitation. An x-ray of the area will show separation of one or even both of the distal humeral condyles.

Treatment involves a screw being placed across the condyles (which stabilises the separation) and a small pin being placed through the condyle and humerus (which stabilises rotation and allows the facture to heal).

Your pet will be able to return home with a bandage and/or splint to provide support and minimise use of the limb. They will need to be kept in a cage for the first 4 to 6 weeks to allow for healing time. These fractures are usually quite rapid to heal; pets will often be running around like normal around 6 weeks after surgery. Implants rarely need to be removed.