Abstract
AbstractTwo large-breed dogs underwent delayed surgical repair of pelvic fractures with the aid of a skeletal traction device. Distraction and reduction in the fractures using the skeletal traction device were monitored by direct visualization and intraoperative fluoroscopy. Postoperative radiographs revealed good to near-anatomical bone reduction and fracture alignment without narrowing of the pelvic canal. Both dogs had complete functional recovery with no evidence of neurological deficits. The use of a skeletal traction device should be considered for reduction and fixation of delayed pelvic fractures.
Highlights
Pelvic fractures are common in small animals constituting 16% of all fractures in dogs and 25% of all fractures in cats.[1]
Two dogs were referred for pelvic fractures; case 1 suffered a road traffic accident, whereas in case 2, non-unions were present as complications of previous bilateral double pelvic osteotomy
Pelvic fractures can pose two potential problems requiring surgical intervention: significant narrowing of the pelvic canal by the caudal fragment, sometimes with compromise of the urinary bladder and large intestines; and trauma to the lumbosacral nerve trunk, which branches into the sciatic nerve just medial to the midbody of the ilium.[15]
Summary
Pelvic fractures are common in small animals constituting 16% of all fractures in dogs and 25% of all fractures in cats.[1] the cause of pelvic fractures is often not known, road traffic accidents are considered the most common reason in both species. Other high-energy traumatic incidents such as crush injury or falling from a height account for some pelvic injuries.[2] Young animals are overrepresented and this may be associated with roaming behavior.[2,3] Anatomically the pelvis may be thought of as a ‘box-like structure’ with struts running through its interior and supported by a large muscle mass.[4] Because of this rigid structure, displacement of fragments is not usually seen unless there are at least two or often three fractures, which commonly occur in specific locations and follow several predictable patterns.[5] Fractures involving the pubic symphysis are the exception and may result in avulsion/fracture of the ischial tuberosity or iliac wing, or non-displaced stress fractures.[4] The nature of pelvic fractures necessitates thorough evaluation of organs and organ systems. The aim of this case report was to introduce and evaluate the use of a skeletal traction device for the delayed repair of pelvic fractures that would not have been difficult to reduce using conventional techniques
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