Fractures in young, single-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius)

Th e objectives were to study the frequencies and classifi cation of fractures in young camels and to evaluate the clinical relevance of external fi xation as a method of treatment. Cases of fractures (n = 75) in young camels (less than 2 years old) were studied. On admission, the cause, site, classifi cation, and radiography of the fractures as well as the methods of treatment were investigated. Factors aff ecting fracture healing aft er treatment were investigated and analyzed. Th e frequencies of fracture were aff ected by breed (P = 0.001) and age (P = 0.01) but not sex. Trauma was the most common cause of fractures (P = 0.001). Tibial fracture was the most common. Treatment was performed either by plaster of paris bandage alone (82.1%) or in combination with polyvinylchloride (PVC) splints (70.6%), interdental wiring (14.8%), or 2 Steinmann pins (1.9%). Satisfactory healing was recorded in 81.5% of the treated cases. In conclusion, breed and age aff ected the frequencies of fracture. Th ere was a signifi cant eff ect of camel age on the cause of fracture. Moreover, there was a signifi cant eff ect of camel age on the fractured bone. External fi xation using plaster of paris bandage with/without PVC splints and interdental wiring are successful treatment methods of fractures in young camels.