Type IV Monteggia fracture in a cat

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Orthopedics
• Comparative Pathology

Background:

• Type IV Monteggia fractures, characterized by radial and ulnar fractures with associated dislocations, are exceptionally rare in feline patients.
• This specific case involved a complex fracture-dislocation pattern with an intact annular ligament, presenting a unique surgical challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the diagnosis and surgical management of a rare type IV Monteggia fracture in a one-year-old cat.
• To evaluate the long-term outcome and radiographic findings following surgical repair.

Main Methods:

• Diagnosis was confirmed through clinical examination and radiographic assessment.
• Surgical intervention involved open reduction and internal fixation of the radius and ulna using two plates.
• Postoperative evaluation included physical examination and radiography at 18 months.

Main Results:

• The cat achieved excellent functional recovery with no lameness or pain 18 months after surgery.
• Radiographs revealed mild osteoarthritis in the affected joints, a common sequela in complex fracture cases.
• The surgical technique, utilizing two plates without a radio-ulnar screw, proved effective for this specific fracture pattern.

Conclusions:

• Surgical repair with plate fixation can provide a favorable long-term outcome for type IV Monteggia fractures in cats.
• The intact annular ligament in this case simplified the reconstruction, allowing for a less invasive fixation strategy.
• This case highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis and tailored surgical approaches for rare fracture configurations in veterinary orthopedics.