Use of Epiphysiodesis as Treatment for a Proximal Physeal Tibial Fracture in a Dog

Marc Balligand,Pierre P Picavet,Martin Hamon,Michael Lefebvre,Bernard Bouvy

doi:10.1055/s-0039-1692170

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to describe the use of epiphysiodesis by the means of a screw to treat a proximal tibial Salter–Harris II fracture associated with a tibial tuberosity avulsion in a 4.5-month-old Airedale Terrier. Study design A healing proximal tibial epiphyseal fracture was observed after a 10-day period. Tibial plateau angle was 40°. The fracture was treated by the insertion of a fluoroscopy-guided 3.5-mm cancellous screw. Results Successful healing of fractures and levelling of tibia plateau were obtained. Final tibial plateau angle was 8°. At long-term follow-up (18 months), owners reported sustained and full functional recovery. Conclusion Prior to ossification of the proximal tibial physis, epiphysiodesis with a screw can be used as a treatment of sub-acute, moderately displaced, Salter–Harris I or II fractures.

Highlights

Fractures of the proximal tibia are identified in about 7% of all canine tibial fractures.[1,2,3,4] Avulsion of the tibial tuberosity and Salter–Harris type I or II fractures of the proximal physis are the most reported in immature dogs.[1,2,3] Avulsion of the tibial tuberosity may occur either independently or in association with fracture-separation of the tibial epiphysis
The aim of this study was to describe the use of epiphysiodesis by the means of a screw to treat a proximal tibial Salter–Harris II fracture associated with a tibial tuberosity avulsion in a 4.5-month-old Airedale Terrier
Prior to ossification of the proximal tibial physis, epiphysiodesis with a screw can be used as a treatment of sub-acute, moderately displaced, Salter–Harris I or II fractures

Summary

Introduction

Fractures of the proximal tibia are identified in about 7% of all canine tibial fractures.[1,2,3,4] Avulsion of the tibial tuberosity and Salter–Harris type I or II fractures of the proximal physis are the most reported in immature dogs.[1,2,3] Avulsion of the tibial tuberosity may occur either independently or in association with fracture-separation of the tibial epiphysis. Objective The aim of this study was to describe the use of epiphysiodesis by the means of a screw to treat a proximal tibial Salter–Harris II fracture associated with a tibial tuberosity avulsion in a 4.5-month-old Airedale Terrier. Conclusion Prior to ossification of the proximal tibial physis, epiphysiodesis with a screw can be used as a treatment of sub-acute, moderately displaced, Salter–Harris I or II fractures.

Results

Conclusion