Surgical repair of fractures of the lateral and medial tibial malleoli in a yearling Arabian filly

Summary A yearling Arabian filly presented with a history of acute hindlimb lameness, marked tarsocrural effusion and associated soft tissue swelling and was diagnosed with fractures of both the lateral and medial malleoli of the distal aspect of the tibia. The fractures were repaired using a combination of cortical bone screws placed in lag fashion and a tension band wire. A full limb cast bandage was placed for recovery from general anaesthesia and the early post operative period. Despite radiographic development of osteoarthritis, 21 months after surgery the filly was clinically sound and racing successfully.