Prognosis


If the owner chooses external fixation, prognosis is still poor.  This is generally true for all 
large animals with fractures because of the inability to immobilize the animal.  The calf will 
be confined to a stall but will still be bearing weight on the leg. The bones may not be able 
to withstand the excess pressure even with the external fixation device. However, this 
fracture is more likely to heal for this calf than for an adult.  This is due to the calfŐs light 
weight and itŐs ability to repair bones.  Even if the calf survives, it may never be able to 
provide natural service. However, this would have been more likely if it had been a rear leg 
fracture.