Surgical Management of Humeral Bicondylar (T-Y) Fracture in a Spaniel

Agatha, a four-year-old Cocker Spaniel, was referred to Animal Trust's Ellesmere Port hospital after sustaining a humeral bicondylar (T-Y) fracture while out running with her owner. Spaniels are particularly prone to humeral bicondylar fracture due to a predisposition for the development of humeral intracondylar fissures (HIF). HIFs can cause lameness even prior to fracture and are a common cause of forelimb lameness in English Springer Spaniels, however, they often present as condylar fractures during moderate to vigorous activity or mild trauma.  
 
A CT scan is advised for cases like this to assess the configuration of the fracture and screen for HIF on the contralateral limb. An in-house CT scan was performed on Agatha, and the team discovered a HIF on the contralateral limb.  
 
The surgical team, led by Dylan (European and RCVS Specialist in Small Animal Surgery), successfully repaired her fracture using a transcondylar screw and two locking plates placed through a combined medial and lateral approach, and six weeks later, Agatha returned for follow-up and showed excellent limb usage and great progress of fracture healing. Agatha subsequently underwent placement of a transcondylar screw in the contralateral limb using a custom-made 3D guide from Fusion Implants to protect the limb from a similar fracture. Agatha is now fully recovered and rehabilitated and back to enjoying life to the full. 

Animal Trust Referral Services

Animal Trust offers specialist referral services for complex cases, working closely with referring vets to ensure seamless patient care.

Services include:
- Soft tissue & orthopaedic surgery
- Diagnostic imaging (CT, ultrasound, X-ray)
- Emergency & critical care

Referring vets receive clear updates, imaging, and discharge reports. Our centres are fully equipped and led by experienced clinicians committed to collaborative, high-quality care.