Fracture - Pin & Wire
Aproximate Cost:
$2,300 - $3,000
What It Is
Pin and wire fixation for long bone fractures involves placing an intramedullary pin down the center (marrow cavity) of the bone to provide alignment and support, combined with circumferential cerclage wires wrapped around the fracture site. The pin adds strength to the bone, while the wires hold oblique or spiral fracture fragments tightly together, preventing them from shifting during healing.
Why It’s Performed
This technique is commonly used for long oblique or spiral fractures of bones such as the femur, tibia, or humerus. These fracture types tend to “slip” under muscle tension, and the combination of pin and wire offers strong internal support while the bone heals. It is particularly useful in small or medium-sized dogs where plates or external fixators may not be necessary.
Risks Involved
Potential risks include infection, pin migration, wire loosening, or irritation to surrounding tissues. If the pin migrates, it may affect joint function or cause discomfort. Some patients may require a second procedure to remove implants after healing if they cause irritation. Delayed healing or malalignment is possible if strict rest is not maintained.
Typical Recovery Time
Most pets require 6–8 weeks of strict activity restriction, with follow-up x-rays to monitor bone healing. In some cases, implants are left in place permanently; in others, the pin or wires are removed once solid healing has occurred. With proper care, most patients regain excellent limb function and return to normal activity.
Our Approach
At Howard County Animal Hospital in Ellicott City, MD, we perform fracture repairs, including intramedullary pin and wire fixation, with precision and attention to patient comfort. Our mission is to make advanced orthopedic surgery both accessible and affordable for families in our community, with clear, upfront estimates so pet owners can plan for the cost of care confidently.
We are committed to offering affordable surgery options with transparent pricing. The cost shown are general estimates only, and a personalized estimate will be provided after your consultation.
We accept all major credit cards, Zelle, and cash. For clients interested in payment plans, we also work with CareCredit.
What’s Included in Our Surgical Costs
Our surgical prices are designed to be as transparent as possible and include:
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All charges typically associated with the day of the procedure
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Preoperative exam the day of the procedure
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Anesthesia and monitoring required throughout the procedure
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All perioperative injectable medications administered before, during and after the procedure to keep your pet safe and comfortable
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IV catheter and fluids to maintain vascular support during your pet’s surgery and recovery
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Detailed discharge instructions for at-home aftercare
What’s NOT Included in Our Surgical Costs
The following items are not included in the surgical costs and may be recommended or required depending on your pet’s individual needs:
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Pre-operative diagnostic workups to determine the underlying problem (e.g., bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound)
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All diagnostics associated with your pet's procedure would be included (e.g. orthopedic surgery requiring post-operative radiographs, cystotomy with stone analysis).
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Pre-anesthetic blood work
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Optional for healthy pets under 3 years old for routine procedures, but recommended to help ensure the safety of anesthesia.
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Radiographs (X-rays) associated with diagnosing or planning the procedure
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Medications to take home (such as pain meds, antibiotics, sedatives or safety collars).
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If needed: Continued care at a local ER for monitoring and stability, recommended for unstable and sick patients.
We will discuss all recommended or required services with you in advance so you have a complete understanding of your pet’s surgical plan and costs.