Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026
Creating Rigidly Stabilized Fractures for Assessing Intramembranous Ossification, Distraction Osteogenesis, or Healing of Critical Sized Defects
Published on: April 11, 2012
Intramedullary pinning of metacarpal and metatarsal fractures in cats using a simple distraction technique
Brigitte Degasperi1, Gabriele Gradner, Gilles Dupré
1Clinic of Small Animal Surgery and Ophthalmology at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria. brigitte.degasperi@vu-wien.ac.at
Objective:
To describe a simple technique of intramedullary (IM) pinning for open reduction and internal fixation of metacarpal and metatarsal fractures in cats and evaluate outcome.
Study Design:
Retrospective study.
Animals:
Cats (n=17).
Methods:
Medical records of cats with metacarpal and metatarsal fractures treated by a specific IM pinning method with Kirschner wires were reviewed. Types of fractures and number of pins used were recorded. Pre- and postoperative radiographs were evaluated. Outcome was assessed based on clinical examination, evaluation of radiographs, and owner questionnaire.
Results:
Seventeen questionnaires were evaluated. Thirteen cats had a final recheck and radiographic assessment. Eight cats were lost to follow-up. Sixteen owners (94%) reported no obvious change in their cat's gait after treatment. One owner reported excellent function in her cat despite a slightly abnormal gait because of bent implants.
Conclusions:
IM pinning after distraction of bone fragments is a reliable technique for treatment of metacarpal and metatarsal fractures in cats. Complications associated with fracture healing may or may not be associated with lameness.
Clinical Relevance:
IM pinning used in conjunction with appropriate bandaging for 4 weeks yields excellent functional outcome for treatment of metacarpal and metatarsal fractures in cats. Metacarpo- and metatarsophalangeal joint damage is prevented using this technique.
