During the Preakness, Barbaro suffered a fracture of what type?

Barbaro suffered a comminuted fracture during the Preakness. A comminuted fracture is characterized by the bone being shattered into multiple pieces, which can complicate the healing process and often requires extensive medical intervention. This type of fracture is particularly severe, as it poses significant challenges for veterinarians in terms of treatment and recovery.

In the case of Barbaro, the specifics of his injury indicated that not only was the bone fractured, but it had also broken into several fragments, necessitating complex surgical approaches. The attention and care required for a comminuted fracture highlight its seriousness compared to other types of fractures, such as simple fractures that involve a single break or compound fractures, where the bone breaks through the skin but might not be in multiple pieces. Recognizing the nature of Barbaro's injury is crucial in understanding the risks involved in high-stakes horse racing and the potential consequences for the horse's welfare.