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Clinical evaluation of pancarpal arthrodesis using a CastLess plate in 11 dogs
Stephen P Clarke1, John F Ferguson, Andrew Miller
1East Neuk Veterinary Clinic, Fife and Broadleys Veterinary Hospital, Station Road, Netherton Estate, St Monans, UK. spcpigsy.72@btinternet.com
Objective:
To describe the use of a 3.5/2.7 mm CastLess Plate (CLP) for pancarpal arthrodesis (PCA) in dogs.
Study Design:
Case series.
Animals:
Dogs with traumatic/degenerative carpal disease (n=11).
Methods:
Records (September 2006-July 2007) of dogs that had PCA using a 3.5/2.7 mm CLP were reviewed to determine intra- and postoperative complications and use of external coaptation. Follow-up (> or =12 months) was obtained by telephone interview of owners.
Results:
Thirteen PCA procedures were performed; 5 intraoperative complications occurred in 4 procedures and included iatrogenic metacarpal fissure fracture (2), inability to remove an alignment pin (1), and poor distal plate position (2). External coaptation was used in 4 dogs: concomitant or iatrogenic injuries (3), bilateral PCA (1), for 3-6 weeks. Clinical evaluation 6-24 weeks postoperatively revealed iatrogenic metacarpal fractures to have healed and that 1 postoperative complication (infection) developed. Telephone follow-up for 10 dogs (mean, 14 months; range, 12-20 months) revealed no further problems.
Conclusion:
PCA using a 3.5/2.7 mm CLP reduces the need for external coaptation and seemingly reduces postoperative morbidity associated with other internal fixation techniques.
Clinical Relevance:
PCA can be performed safely and successfully using a 3.5/2.7 mm CLP, with low postoperative morbidity compared with other PCA techniques. Particular attention should be taken when applying the distal component of the plate.
