How to tell if a hedgehog has a broken limb

Hedgehogs are quite often brought to us with one or more broken limbs. Often the fracture is compound and grossly infected.

Treatment can vary depending on the site of fracture and degree of infection. When the only option on a Vet's advice is to amputate, the hedgehog usually recovers well post-operatively. However he cannot be returned to the wild as he would encounter all sorts of difficulties. After convalescence, he will be found a suitable secure garden where he can live a semi-wild existence whilst being observed carefully by a foster carer in case of any problems. The photo shows a hedgehog with a typical broken and infected front limb.

What happened to this one ? Did it survive ?

Yes she did. She is currently in the far end incubator. Not out of the woods yet though. She has been back to the Vets twice since the amputation. The first time she was put on two antibiotics. The second time was yesterday when she had X-rays to try and see what is causing the site of the operation to blow up like a balloon. No signs of air or infection under the skin. Will just have to see how she goes over the next week or two. The swelling may just go down on it's own. That's the plan anyway. Other than that she is eating well and gaining weight.