Augmentation of arthrodesis in dogs using a free autogenous omental graft

A technique for using free autogenous omental grafting with arthrodesis in dogs is described and radiographic osseous union and complications after surgery are evaluated. This retrospective study matched body weight and procedure type for 8 cases of pancarpal arthrodesis, 4 cases of pantarsal arthrodesis, and 2 cases of partial tarsal arthrodesis in dogs with omental and cancellous bone autograft (OBG group) and with cancellous bone autograft alone (BG group). Radiographs were reviewed 9 to 12 weeks after surgery to compare scores of radiographic osseous union and it was found that the OBG group had higher scores than the BG group. The BG group had significantly more major complications that required re-operation for implant removal or treatment of a deep infection compared to the OBG group. Overall, free autogenous omental grafts may be used to augment arthrodesis in dogs without significant morbidity and further investigation of its use to reduce major complications and speed bone healing are warranted.