Fractures In Cats Research Articles

Minimally Invasive Radial-Ulnar and Tibial Fracture Management with Supracutaneous Locking Plates in Dogs and Cats.

This study aimed to report the clinical, radiographic, and computed tomography results of supracutaneous locking plate (SLP) application in radial-ulnar and tibial fractures. In this clinical prospective study, cats and dogs with nonarticular radial, ulnar, and tibial fractures were managed with SLP. Surgical records, fracture healing, complications, and lameness were reviewed during scheduled rechecks. Fracture healing was assessed by clinical, radiographic, and tomographic reexaminations. All cases were reevaluated during clinical and radiological follow-up examinations for 13 weeks. Supracutaneous locking plates were used in 8 radial-ulnar and 25 tibial fractures. Closed reduction was used in 10 cases, and the minimally invasive osteosynthesis approach technique was used in 20 cases. The median fracture healing time was 50.5 days (range: 27-88). Callus area, the Hounsfield units value of callus tissue, and three-dimensional bone volume gradually increased during fracture healing (p < 0.05). Using SLPs to manage nonarticular diaphyseal radial-ulnar and tibial fractures in cats and dogs resulted in acceptable clinical outcomes. Cats and dogs tolerated SLPs well, and no complications related to structural integrity were encountered in most cases.

Long Bone Fractures in Cats and Dogs: Characteristics and Available Treatment in Algiers: A Retrospective Study of 66 Fractures

Long Bone Fractures in Cats and Dogs: Characteristics and Available Treatment in Algiers: A Retrospective Study of 66 Fractures

Rigid maxillomandibular fixation using a novel technique involving unbonded polymethylmethacrylate canine tooth moulds and interarch wiring for maxillomandibular trauma in three cats.

Mandibular and maxillary fractures are common in small animals and present significant challenges for repair due to the intricate anatomical features involved. This retrospective case series describes a technique for achieving rigid open mouth maxillomandibular fixation using interarch wiring while maintaining correct alignment between the upper and lower teeth with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) moulds of the canine teeth for treating maxillomandibular fractures in cats. The study includes a description of the postoperative outcomes and complications encountered. The surgical technique successfully achieved anatomical dental occlusion and restored jaw function in all three cats. The implants were well tolerated, with only minor complications such as mild ptyalism and temporary tongue protrusion. No intraoperative complications occurred, and all three cats resumed normal hard food consumption after implant removal. This study provides initial evidence that the use of rostral interarch wiring combined with PMMA canine tooth moulds can result in clinical union and normal occlusion, given appropriate surgical case selection. This technique is simple to perform, requires minimal inventory and can be implemented in clinical settings where thorough anatomical planning is conducted.

Retrospective Evaluation of Pelvic Fractures in Cats: 144 Cases (2018-2023)

Objectives: This study aims to examine pelvic fractures in cats brought to the XXXX University Animal Health and Research Hospital between 2018 and 2023. Materials and Methods: Using a retrospective design, the study analyzed data from 144 cats. Results: The data revealed that pelvic fractures generally occurred as a result of traumatic events such as motor vehicle accidents and falls from heights. Of the 259 fracture cases studied, it was determined that 24.32% were pubic fractures, 23.54% were sacroiliac separations, 19.69% were ischial fractures, 12.74% were ilial fractures, 10.42% were symphysis pelvis separations, 7.72% were acetabular fractures, and 1.54% were sacral fractures. Patients in the study were treated conservatively or operatively (using methods such as iliosacral screws, acetabular C plates, locked plates, cerclage wires, and dorsal laminectomy). Conclusions: In conclusion, operative treatment plays a significant role in the management of pelvic fractures, and the suitability of surgery should be carefully evaluated. Clinical outcomes indicated that cats undergoing operative treatment achieved more favorable results and higher discharge rates.

External skeletal fixation for the treatment of pelvic fractures in cats.

To report the technique and the outcome for the repair of pelvic fractures in cats using external skeletal fixation (ESF). Retrospective case series. Client-owned cats (n = 125). Medical records of cats with pelvic fractures, treated with an ESF between June 2001 and June 2009, were reviewed. Preoperative, immediate postoperative, and more than 4 weeks' postoperative radiographs were compared. Clinical examination was performed 4 to 9 weeks following surgery. Longer term follow up (4 to 80 months) was conducted by client questionnaire. No intraoperative complications occurred. There was no change in the pelvic canal width observed on follow-up radiographs (p = .16). Implant loosening was noted on follow-up radiographs in 16/125 (13%) of cases, and 67/803 (8%) pins were palpably loose at the time of frame removal. The mean time to frame removal was 37 ± 9 days. No long-term complications were reported. Long-term mean mobility score was 95 ± 5 and median lameness was 0 (range: 0-2). An ESF may be successfully applied for the stabilization of various pelvic fractures in cats. The application of an ESF for the management of pelvic fractures in cats provides good outcomes.

Use of a novel three-dimensional anatomical plating system for treatment of caudal mandibular fractures in cats: 13 cases (2019-2023).

A total of 13 cases of cats with a caudal mandibular fracture treated with a novel surgical technique using the Ramus Anatomical Plate system were reviewed. Preoperative, immediate postoperative and a minimum of 8 weeks postoperative CT images were required as inclusion criteria. The outcome and complications were determined from clinical data and radiographic follow-up examinations. All cases achieved adequate anatomical reduction, resulting in a functional and atraumatic occlusion postoperatively. No intraoperative complications were reported. Time to voluntary food intake was in the range of 1-25 days. No evidence of disruptions to the implants or screw loosening was observed in the 8-week postoperative CT imaging, with radiographic evidence of complete osseous union in all fractures. The most common postoperative complication was swelling at the surgical site. Two cats had postoperative exophthalmos due to retrobulbar haemorrhage, and one cat exhibited partial wound dehiscence 5 days postoperatively, which resolved with medical management. Longer-term complications included intraoral plate exposure in one cat, which required plate removal 10 months postoperatively. In this case series, rigid internal fixation of caudal mandibular fractures using the Ramus Anatomical Plate osteosynthesis system was associated with a minimal complication rate, and satisfactory radiographic and clinical outcomes. The reported outcomes of this novel technique are favourable when compared with previous techniques described for the management of these fracture types.

Effects of Erythropoietin-Promoted Fracture Healing on Bone Turnover Markers in Cats.

In orthopaedics, erythropoietin (EPO) is applied in the preoperative management of anaemic patients, but also as a stimulating factor to assist bone regeneration due to its angiogenic and osteoinductive potential. Since orthopaedists mainly rely on their clinical experience to assess bone healing, additional and more objective methods such as studying the dynamics of bone markers are needed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the plasma activity of bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP), the N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (PINP), the C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX), and deoxypyridinoline (DPD) during the first 2 months of healing of comminuted fractures in cats, either non-stimulated or locally stimulated with recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO). The study included twelve cats of mixed breeds, aged 7.2 ± 4 months, weighing 2.11 ± 1.1 kg, with comminuted diaphyseal fractures of the femur. Surgical treatment with plate osteosynthesis was performed in all animals. The cats were randomly divided into two groups-a control (n = 6) and an EPO group (n = 6). The locally applied EPO leads to the increased activity of bone formation markers (BALP and PINP) during the second week after the osteosynthesis, preceding the peaks in the control group by two weeks. The studied bone resorption markers (DPD, CTX) varied insignificantly during the studied period. In conclusion, erythropoietin could serve as a promoter of bone healing in comminuted fractures in cats.

Feline radial and ulnar diaphyseal fractures: a retrospective study of 49 cases comparing single bone fixation and dual bone fixation.

The objectives of this study were to report the complications in radial and ulnar diaphyseal fractures in cats and to compare the differences in outcome between single and dual bone internal fixation. Medical records between 2004 and 2022 were searched retrospectively for cats with antebrachial diaphyseal fractures treated with internal bone-plate fixation. In total, 49 cases were included from six referral hospitals, including one teaching hospital. Patient information was collated, including fracture configuration, location, repair method and clinical outcome as assessed by veterinary physical examination, radiography and owner questionnaire. A total of 47 cats (mean age 4.2 years) were included. Fractures were located distally (24/49, 49%), proximally (13/49, 26.5%) and mid-diaphyseally (12/49, 24.5%). Dual bone fixation was used in 13/49 (26.5%) cases, with only 1/13 (7.7%) having major complications. By comparison, 4/36 (11.1%) of single plated fractures had major complications. Single bone fixation was 14.25 times more likely (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.07-97.99) to have a successful outcome (veterinarian-assigned score of 0) compared with dual bone fixation (P = 0.007). When evaluating owner-assessed outcomes, single bone fixation was 9.4 times more likely (95% CI 1.4-61.96) to have a successful outcome (owner score of 0) compared with dual bone fixation (P = 0.019). Fractures that were repaired with single bone fixation had a greater chance of a better outcome. Although the difference was not significant, there was a higher major complication rate and a lower minor complication rate for cases treated with single bone fixation compared with dual bone fixation. The majority of fractures were located in the distal diaphysis. Comminution of the fracture and concurrent orthopaedic issues did not significantly affect the outcome. Further prospective studies with standardised follow-up, radiographic assessment, surgeon and implants are required to truly assess the difference between dual and single bone fixation.

Evaluation of distal femur fractures in cats by hybrid external fixator

In this study, clinical and radiological findings obtained from the treatment of distal femur fractures in cats with hybrid external fixator were evaluated. A total of 10 cats of different ages, breeds and genders with clinically diagnosed femur fractures were used as research material. In the study, hybrid external fixators consisting of circular and linear fixators were used as osteosynthesis material. Closed reduction and external fixation methods were used in 2 cases diagnosed with closed fractures, while limited open reduction and external fixation methods were used in 8 cases diagnosed with open fractures or excessive dislocations. In the radiological examination findings, it was determined that fracture consolidation started on the post-operative 7th day in 9 cases and on the 10th day in 1 case, respectively. Fracture healing was completed in 4 weeks in 2 cases, in 5 weeks in 2 cases, and in 6 weeks in 6 cases (osseous callus was detected). Fixators were removed one week after healing was completed in all patients. In the study, soft tissue complications such as edema in the extremities in 3 cases, mild pin infection in 3 cases and open wounds in 4 cases were determined. However, it was observed that these complications did not adversely affect the recovery time. As a result, with the data obtained from the study, it was concluded that the distal femur fractures in cats of the age and weight scales examined in the study can be successfully treated with the hybrid external fixator system.

Stabilisation of femoral capital physeal fractures using transcervical pinning in cats: 19 cases (2014-2022).

To report the short-term clinical and radiographic outcomes in cats with femoral capital physeal fractures stabilised with transcervical pinning. Medical records of cats diagnosed with femoral capital physeal fractures and treated with transcervical pinning were reviewed. The collected data included signalment, weight, time from lameness to surgery, reported trauma, affected side, concomitant orthopaedic injuries, radiographs, osteoarthritis, femoral neck osteolysis, proximal femoral epiphysis to femoral neck ratio, fracture reduction, implants, complications and clinical evaluation results. An owner questionnaire was used for long-term follow-up. Nineteen cats with a total of 21 fractures met the inclusion criteria. Fifteen of the 19 cats showed no signs of lameness at the 1-month follow-up. Major and catastrophic complications occurred in 9.5% and 23.8% of the fractures, respectively. All catastrophic complications occurred in fractures with a high preoperative osteolysis grade (2 or 3). In our study, transcervical pinning was found to be a reliable fixation method for the treatment of femoral capital physeal fractures in cats with minimal preoperative femoral neck osteolysis. High rates of implant failure with loss of fracture reduction were observed in cats with high-grade preoperative osteolysis.

Ex vivo biomechanical evaluation of 2.4 mm LCP plate rod constructs versus 2.7 mm LCP applied to the feline tibia.

To compare the stiffness and strength of three plate and rod fixation constructs applied to a feline tibial gap model. Ex vivo study. Thirty-three unpaired tibiae obtained from skeletally mature cats. The tibiae were randomly divided into three groups. The following implants were then applied to the feline tibiae prior to the creation of a 10 mm diaphyseal gap. Group 1: 2.4 mm locking compression plate (LCP) and 1.0 mm intramedullary pin (IMP). Group 2: 2.4 mm LCP and 1.6 mm IMP. Group 3: 2.7 mm LCP. Subsequently, each specimen was tested for torsion, axial compression, and axial load until construct failure. Student's t-tests were used to compare the torsional and axial stiffness, yield load, and maximum axial force. Group 2 had higher axial stiffness than group 3 (p = .013). Group 1 showed a lower maximum axial force and yield point than groups 2 and 3 (p < .01; p < .05, respectively). There were no among-group differences in torsional stiffness. Constructs with a 2.4 mm LCP and 1.6 mm IMP provided the strongest and most rigid constructs in a feline tibia gap model. A plate-rod construct combining a 2.4 mm LCP and a 1.6 mm IMP is appropriate for achieving high implant stiffness and resisting maximum axial force in treatment of tibial fractures in cats.

Mandibular fracture repair techniques in cats: a dentist's perspective.

Feline head trauma injuries are common in general practice, often resulting in mandibular fracture. An understanding of the recent advances in the field of mandibular fracture repair will facilitate evidence-based decision-making in clinical practice. Feline maxillofacial and oral anatomy brings unique challenges in comparison with dogs. It has been commonplace to adapt techniques and equipment that are better suited to other body regions or are species-inappropriate for use in feline maxillofacial surgery, and this has traditionally resulted in high morbidity. This review presents an overview of the diagnosis of, and decison-making for, maxillofacial trauma in cats, specifically with reference to the feline mandible. The challenges associated with the management of these injuries are presented. Techniques for repair that can be employed in general practice, as well as more advanced surgical options, are discussed, as well as the indications for invasive vs non-invasive management. Underutilised methods involving composite dental materials and their versatility for the repair of mandibular fractures in cats, and miniplates for caudal mandibular fractures in cats, are specifically covered, as well as other recent advances in the field, including three-dimensional printing and custom-printed implants. Management of feline facial fractures is an often neglected topic, with very few published studies choosing to focus on head trauma outcomes in cats. Where available, however, this review draws on the published literature, as well as the authors' own clinical experience.

Management of Feline Femoral, Tibial and Humeral Fractures Using a 3.5 mm Titanium Interlocking Nail.

Our objectives were to report complications associated with stabilization of long-bone fractures in cats using a 3.5-mm titanium interlocking nail and to examine the influences of signalment, fracture type and fixation evaluations on the occurrence of complications. Retrospective clinical study. Medical and radiographic records of cats with long-bone fractures treated with an interlocking nail were reviewed. Data included age, sex, weight, cause of the fracture, fractured bone(s) and fracture type. Complications were classified as minor and major complications. Fisher's exact tests and logistic regression analysis were used to test whether certain variables of signalment and interlocking nail configuration had an effect on the occurrence of complications. Sixty-seven fractures of 67 cats were examined in this study. Forty-eight femora, sixteen tibiae and three humeri were included. Complications occurred in 11/67 fractures. Major complications occurred in 8/67 fractures and included screw breakage (n = 3), nail breakage (n = 2), nail bending (n = 1), screw loosening (n = 1), non-union (n = 1). Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between fracture types and the occurrence of major complications (p = 0.02). In conclusion, use of this commercially available standard 3.5-mm titanium interlocking nail for stabilization of comminuted and oblique humeral, femoral and tibial fractures in cats is feasible.

Short-Term Clinical and Radiographic Outcome after Stabilization of Femoral Capital Physeal Fractures with Cortical Positional Screws in 39 Cats.

The aim of this study was to report the short-term clinical and radiographic outcome for the treatment of femoral capital physeal fractures with cortical positional screws in cats. Medical records and radiographs of cats with femoral capital physeal fractures stabilized with cortical positional screws were retrospectively reviewed. Signalment, bodyweight, femoral head affected, fracture classification, fracture reduction, implants, concurrent orthopaedic injuries, osteoarthritis, femoral neck osteolysis, complications and 6-week follow-up clinical results were recorded. A short- to long-term follow-up was performed by telephone questionnaire with the owners. Forty-six fractures in 39 cats met the inclusion criteria. In 45/46 fractures, radiographic signs of bone healing were present and 35/39 cats were assessed as walking normally by a veterinarian at 6-week follow-up. There was a significant increase in radiographic signs of osteoarthritis (p=0.037) and femoral neck osteolysis (p=0.001) on 6-week follow-up radiographs. Pre- and postoperative osteoarthritis and femoral neck osteolysis were not associated with clinical outcome. The mean follow-up period for the telephone questionnaire was 48 months (range, 5-147 months). Seven out of 25 owners reported a gait abnormality in the short- to long-term. Femoral capital physeal fractures in cats can be treated successfully with the use of cortical positional screws. This technique may be considered as an alternative to other primary fixation techniques and salvage procedures for the treatment of femoral capital physeal injuries in cats. This technique seemed successful in cats with a low-grade preoperative femoral neck osteolysis.

A Comparison of Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Different Anatomical Regions Plate osteosynthesis in Cats with Body of Ilium Fractures

Pelvis fractures in cats are one of the most common orthopedic problems that cause serious injuries. Pelvic fractures are between 20-32% out of all fractures in cats. Os Ilium fractures constitute 18-46% of pelvic fractures. In the presented study, the post-operative clinical and radiological results of placing the plate on the dorsal, ventral and lateral of the corpus ossis ilii in cats with os ilium fractures were evaluated.Twenty three cats (different races, ages and sex) with corpus ossis ilium and multiple fractures (sacro-iliac joint luxation, acetabulum fractures, os ischium fractures) were used as a materials. Anamnesis, clinical and neurological examinations of patients were taken and 3 groups were formed for this study. Group 1; In 7 cases, the plate was placed in the dorsal of the body of ilium, in group 2, 7 cases in the lateral of body of ilium and in Group 3; in 6 cases, in the ventral of the body of ilium. Operations were performed under general anesthesia. LC-DCP plate or reconstruction plates were used for fixation. There was no narrowing in the pelvic canal and no screw loosening in cases applied dorsally and ventrally. In 6 (85.7%) of 7 cases, there was no narrowing in the pelvic canal in lateral application. Only one case had problem. Recovery rate (85.7%) in all cases.In conclusion, in cases of os ilium fracture in cats, no difference was observed between the clinical and radiological (narrowing in the pelvic canal) results of placing LC-DCP or reconstruction plates on the dorsal, lateral and ventral of the bone in the post-operative period. Thus, screw loosening did not occur. But, case selection is important in the lateral, dorsal or ventral application of the plate in os ilium fractures. If the surgical intervention has passed 5-6 days, double plate application provides a better prognosis. Dorsale plate application provides ease of manipulation when compared to ventral application. Also, if the fracture line close to the acetabulum, lateral application should be preferred.

Prevalence of pelvic fractures in cat and dogs: A retrospective study in 183 cases (2016-2020)

This study aims to classify radiographically diagnosed pelvic fractures in cats (n = 103) and dogs (n = 80). The pelvic bone resembles a box structurally, and as a result of the trauma of this bone, multiple fractures usually occur. Radiographs of cats and dogs exposed to various traumas were evaluated and classified as ilium, ischium, pubis, acetabulum, sacroiliac luxations and symphysis pubis fractures. The mean age of the cases included in the study was 16.9 months in cats and 19.2 months in dogs. Pelvic fractures were more common in females than males (♀=57.9%, ♂= 42.1%). In this context, it was constituted 18.7% ilium fractures, 12.6% pubis fractures, 18.9% ischial fractures, 11.3% acetabulum fractures, 29.2% sacroiliac luxation and 9% symphysis pelvis fractures of pelvic fractures. As a result, it was revealed that multiple fractures could be seen in traumas taken to the pelvic area and their rates.

Dowel pinning in phalangeal fractures

AbstractThe objective of this case series was to report the outcome of a new technique for the surgical treatment of phalangeal fractures in cats and dogs. Medical records of cats and dogs presented with phalangeal fractures and treated with dowel pinning were retrospectively reviewed. Cases were included when a clinical examination and a radiographic follow‐up evaluation of at least 6 months were available. Complications during the healing period and the final radiographic and functional outcome were analysed. Two cats and six dogs fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Closed fractures of a single phalanx predominated. All fractures were diaphyseal, transverse and displaced. Malunions occurred in two dogs. Complete functional union was achieved in all cases at the final follow‐up. In conclusion, Dowel pinning was found to be an effective treatment for displaced, diaphyseal fractures of the proximal and the middle phalanx and a viable alternative to digit amputation.

Feline Femoral Fracture Fixation: What are the options?

The femur is the most commonly fractured bone in cats. Femoral fractures usually result from high-velocity trauma such as a road traffic accident or fall from a height and, as such, are associated with a wide variety of concurrent injuries. The initial focus of treatment should always be on assessment and stabilisation of the major body systems. Once any concurrent injuries have been addressed, all femoral fractures need surgical stabilisation, with the notable exception of greenstick fractures in very young cats, which can heal with cage rest alone. A number of different surgical options are available depending on the fracture type, location, equipment, surgeon experience and owner finances. Femoral fractures can vary hugely in complexity and the small size of feline bones can limit the choice of implants. Furthermore, cats can present unique challenges in the postoperative period due to their active nature and the limited means to control their exercise level. This review is aimed at general and feline-specific practitioners who have some experience of feline orthopaedics, as well as those simply wishing to expand their knowledge. The aim of this review is to help clinicians assess, plan and manage feline femoral fractures. It provides an overview of diagnostic imaging and a discussion of a range of suitable surgical options, including the principles of different types of fixation. It also highlights cat-specific issues, approaches and implants pertinent to the management of these cases. A number of original articles and textbook chapters covering many aspects of femoral fractures in cats and dogs have been published. Where possible, this review draws on information from key feline research and, where necessary, extrapolates from relevant canine literature. The authors also offer practical guidance based on their own clinical experience.

Treatment of Cats Distal Diaphyseal and Supracondylar Femur Fractures with Dynamic Intramedullary Cross Pinning Technique

This study was conducted on 12 cats with 11 supracondylar femur fractures and one distal diaphyseal femur fracture. Fracture properties, operation details, postoperative complications, and radiographic images of the cases were recorded. The supracondylar fractures in the study were classified according to Salter‐Harris, and they were determined as type I in 1, Type II in 7, and Type IV in 3 of them. Dynamic intramedullary cross pinning technique was applied to patients with Salter‐Harris type II, type I and distal diaphyseal femur fractures, dynamic intramedullary cross pinning, and intercondylar screw application, as for that, was applied to patients with Salter‐Harris type IV fractures. It was observed that 8 of the 12 patients who were operated on used their extremities after removing the bandage on the relevant extremity. In two patients with Salter‐Harris type IV fractures, lameness was observed due to fractures in other regions, but extremity movement returned to normal after healing the bone. A patient with a Salter‐Harris type IV fracture, due to the extent of the damage to the joint as a result of trauma, had narrowing and limping in the joint angle. In a patient with a Salter‐Harris type I fracture, pin migration occurred five days after the operation, and the cross‐pinning technique was applied in a second operation. In consequence of the findings, it was observed that the dynamic intramedullary cross pinning technique was influential in the treatment of supracondylar femur fractures in cats.

Outcomes and Complications Associated with Acute Gunshot Fractures in Cats and Dogs.

The aim of this study was to summarize outcomes and complications of gunshot fracture management in small animals. Review of cats and dogs with radiographically confirmed acute gunshot fractures, presenting data on signalment, fracture location, fracture management (surgical vs. non-surgical, type of surgical repair), fracture comminution, extent of soft tissue trauma, postoperative complication and overall outcome. A poor outcome was defined as patient death, major postoperative complication or limb amputation (both as primary treatment or secondary to postoperative complications). Ninety-seven animals with 137 acute gunshot-induced fractures were identified. There were 21 (15.3%) maxillofacial, 16 (11.7%) vertebral column, 8 (5.8%) rib, 56 (40.9%) distal long bone (below stifle/cubital joint) and 36 (26.3%) proximal long bone (at or above stifle/cubital joint) fractures. Overall, 20/37 cases with sufficient follow-up details incurred a poor fracture outcome. Extensive soft tissue trauma at the fracture site was associated with an increased likelihood of poor outcome. The most common poor outcomes were primary limb amputations (7 cases) and postoperative complications (3 osteomyelitis/surgical site infections, 4 delayed/non-unions). Gunshot fractures overall have high likelihood of poor outcome. Severe soft tissue injury is associated with complications. Mitigating poor outcome likely requires early aggressive wound management.