Abstract
Objective To characterize central tarsal bone fractures and associated tarsal fractures in
a cohort of racing and ex-racing greyhounds using computed tomography (CT).
Study Design Retrospective observational study including 66 client-owned greyhounds (67 limbs)
presented for central tarsal bone fracture between 2017 and 2024. Collected data included
signalment, racing history, and laterality of tarsal injury. Central tarsal bone fractures
were characterized using a previously described grading system, and concomitant tarsal
injuries were recorded.
Results Of 67 central tarsal bone fractures, 59 showed moderate to severe comminution. Six
fractures were dorsal slab fractures, one was a combined dorsal and medial slab fracture,
and one was a luxation. Consistent with the findings of prior studies, the majority
of central tarsal bone fractures affected the right limb (58/67 limbs). The most common
concomitant tarsal injuries were fractures of the fourth tarsal bone (30/67 limbs),
fractures of the calcaneus (25/67 limbs), and proximal intertarsal instability or
luxation (6/67 limbs).
Conclusion CT reveals a substantially higher number of highly comminuted fractures than have
been reported in prior studies that characterized central tarsal bone fractures using
orthogonal radiography. Concurrent injury to other tarsal structures is a common finding
and is an accurate predictor of severe comminution of the central tarsal bone.
Keywords
tarsal fracture - central tarsal bone - greyhound - computed tomography