Management of distal humeral fractures in dogs with unilateral semicircular external skeletal fixators: prospective clinical trial and results in twelve cases

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to present an alternative technique for the treatment of distal humeral fractures in young or small breed clogs, and to evaluate the effectiveness of the technique. 12 dogs of varying breeds, age, and sex with 9 supracondylar and 3 intracondylar humeral fractures were used in this study. A semicircular external skeletal fixation system was used for the fixation of the distal humeral fractures by open reduction. Configuration of the system, complications, time to limb usage, fixator removal time, and functional outcomes were evaluated clinically and radiographically. Clinical lameness score and evidence of pathologic changes in the elbow joints were evaluated at the final follow up examinations. All fractures obtained radiographic union. Three of the dogs started to use their limbs immediately after waking up from anesthesia. In the other 9 clogs the time ranged from 2 to 7 days. The most common complication was pin tract discharge during the convalescence period. (Time to fixator removal) ranged from 30 to 48 days (mean 37 days). At the final clinical examination, there was no observable lameness in 9 dogs while intermittent, mild weight-bearing lameness was observed in 3 dogs. As a result the technique has been found to be an alternative method to use in fixation of the distal humeral fractures in young or small breed dogs.