Hematogenous Osteomyelitis Following Open Fracture in a Cat

A 6-month-old, weighing 2.8 kg, female, domestic short-haired cat presented with open fracture at right distal radius about a month ago. Based on radiological findings, hyperplasia at the right radioulna and left humerus was found. Results of the cytological examination were inflammatory reaction and reactive osteoblast. Distal radial ostectomy proceeded with necrotic bone debridement. Three weeks after operation, the radial bone lysis was seen on radiograph but clinical condition improved. Hyperplasia at the right radioulna and left humerus was dissolved. Two months after operation, she can use her both forelimbs despite right elbow have been diagnosed as arthrosclerosis because of periosteal reaction. Six months after operation, clinical symptoms of limbs were not detected. In this case, open fracture was treated through delayed surgical debridement procedure, therefore hematogenous osteomyelitis occurs at another forelimb. The longer a wound remains open, the more likely it is that infection will develop. The infection can occur to fracture bone and seed from hematogenous spread to another normal bone. In conclusion, when open fracture occurs, early antibiotic treatment and urgent surgical intervention are recommended.