Treatment of Long Bone Fractures with Acrylic External Fixation in Dogs and Cats: Retrospective Study in 30 Cases (2006-2008)

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to assess the use of acrylic external fixation in long bone fractures of dogs and cats. The material of this retrospective study was composed of 22 dogs and 8 cats. Thirty fractures localized in long bones were stabilized using acrylic external fixation with different frame configurations. Configuration of the ESF was unilateral (type I) in 2 (9%), bilateral (type II) in 14 (63.6%). bilateral biplanar (type III) in 3 (13.7%). and free-form in 3 (13.7%) dogs and unilateral (type I) in 2 (25%), and bilateral (type II) in 6 (75%) cats. Mean frame removal duration was 37 days in dogs and 29.5 days in cats. Minor complications like pin tract infection. periosteal reaction, late pin loosening, synostose, and mild interfragmental angulation were observed in 8 cases (26.6%) and major complications like osteomyelitis, nonunion and delayed union in three (10%). One case was euthanasised because of a concomitant vertebral fracture The final outcome at frame removal was judged as excellent in 19 cases (65.6%). good in 7 (24.2%), fair in 1 (3.4%), and poor in 2 (6.8%) Fixator tolerance and bone healing were better in cats and puppies when compared with adult dogs. It was concluded that with a proper frame configuration. acrylic external fixation can maintain effective stabilization in long bone fractures of dogs and cats. Cost-effectiveness is one of the other advantages of this technique.