Surgical correction of closed simple metatarsal fractures in a pet rabbit ( Oryctolagus cuniculus ) with intramedullary pins

Abstract A 4‐month‐old pet rabbit was presented with intermittent left pelvic limb lameness, painful and swollen left metatarsal region. Radiographs revealed complete simple fractures of the left metatarsal bones II, III and IV. Open reduction and internal fixation were performed using intramedullary pins. The patient recovered well from the anaesthesia and surgical procedure. The following day, the patient regained physiological weight‐bearing of the affected extremity. The patient was rechecked 42, 62 and 139 days post‐operatively. Each follow‐up included lameness examination, bone callus palpation and radiographic examination. Complete osteosynthesis was observed after 139 days, and the implants were removed. The patient was finally checked post 6 months, and the affected limb returned to normal function. Complications observed included delay in skin wound healing, metatarsal synostosis and phalangeal deviation. Intramedullary pinning is a suitable option for metatarsal fractures in companion rabbits.