Calcaneoquartal arthrodesis in the dog

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe efficacy of calcaneoquartal arthrodesis was evaluated retrospectively in 36 dogs (39 joints) with instability of the proximal intertarsal joint. Instability was caused by rupture of the plantar ligament in 27 dogs (75 per cent) while in the remaining nine dogs it was complicated by fractures or luxations of other tarsal bones. The average period between the time of injury and referral was 10 weeks. Thirteen dogs had received prior treatment. Arthrodesis was achieved in 33 of the 39 joints (85 per cent) following the initial surgery, while a further four joints were subsequently successfully treated, giving an overall success rate of 95 per cent. Sixteen limbs (41 per cent) developed complications; these complications were seen more frequently in dogs referred with a history of previous unsuccessful cast or surgical management. After an average follow‐up period of 37 months, 76 per cent of the dogs were reported to be sound.