(d) Complete fractures are those in which there is actual separation of the parts of bone.
(e) Comminuted fractures are those in which the bone is splintered or fragmented.
(3) Treatment of fractures is quite simple: bring broken parts into contact and immobilize them to avoid movement which might injure delicate healing tissues.
(a) Since bones heal in whatever position they are placed, it is necessary to splint the limb in as nearly normal a position as possible.
(b) Take care that the splint does not interfere with healing.
1. Do not bandage splint too tightly. The bandage must be snug to avoid movement of the parts, however, if it is too tight, the blood supply will be cut off and the limb will die. Splints applied before the injured limb has swollen must be closely observed for several hours, or until the swelling has reached its maximum so that circulation is not impeded.
2. Pad limb with cotton or gauze to protect it from the hard surfaces of the splint.
3. Dust powdered boric acid on the region of the fracture, particularly if the fracture is compound.
(c) Splints may be easily and satisfactorily fashioned from pieces of pliable tin. Cut and bend to fit contour of limb in normal resting position ([fig. 47)]. Splints for fractures in the shank should extend down along the shank on one side, then bend to form a loop down around the foot and back up the opposite side of the limb. In a short time the bird learns that it can step on the limb without pain because the weight falls on the loop of the splint rather than on the foot.
(d) Splints should be left in place for 3 weeks before removing. Healing, if successful, will be sufficient to permit removal of splint at this time.
c. Torn crops. These may be successfully sutured if the edges are turned in so that the outside surfaces, not the lining, of the crop come in contact. The skin may then be sutured to help support the crop.
