Conservative management with external coaptation technique for treatment of a severely comminuted fracture of the proximal phalanx in a Holstein-Friesian cow

A 3-year-old Holstein-Friesian cow was evaluated because of sudden onset of right hind limb lameness and pain with fetlock swelling for 2 days. Based on the history, clinical index scores and computed radiographic examinations, the case was accurately diagnosed to be a severely comminuted fracture of the proximal phalanx. This cow was assigned for conservative treatment with external coaptation technique. Over the repair follow-up period, the treated cow showed considerably improved clinical index scores and returned to its previous production level. In conclusion, conservative management of comminuted fractures of the proximal phalanx can provide a proper stabilization of the fracture and enable an affected cow to be returned to its intended production with minimal cost.