Evaluation of the Treatment of Feline Metacarpal and Metatarsal Fractures Using Dowel Pinning Technique

Abstract

This study is aimed to evaluate the postoperative results of the operations performed with the dowel pin technique in metacarpal (Mc) and metatarsal (Mt) fractures of cats, clinically and radiologically. A retrospective evaluation was carried out for 10 cats with Mc and Mt fractures by performing clinical and radiographic examinations for an average of 4.5 months after surgery using the dowel pin technique. In the evaluation, the number of fractures, fracture type and localization, fracture healing, and postoperative complications resulting from clinical and radiographic results, postoperative observations, and the animal owners' observations in the postoperative process were considered. Questionnaires made to animal owners were evaluated. Clinical and radiographic evaluation of the cats included in the study was performed. After the 12th week of the study, there was no information from two cats. Nine of the clients (90%) reported no significant change in their cat's walking after treatment. One client reported that after 4 weeks postoperatively, the cat kept its extremity at rest and suffered from persistent lameness at a minimal level. In conclusion, despite the limited case series of the study, it is seen that the dowel pin technique is a simple, economic, effective, and reliable method for the surgical healing of Mc and Mt bone fractures.