Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Iris Fixation via External Pentagram Suturing
Published on: May 5, 2022
Postoperative Complications Associated with External Skeletal Fixators in Dogs
Lee James Beever1, Kirsty Giles1, Richard Lawrence Meeson1,2
1Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, Royal Veterinary College, The Royal Veterinary College Queen Mother Hospital for Animals Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Complications from external skeletal fixator (ESF) use in dogs are frequent, often involving implant infections. Careful consideration of ESF placement, especially transarticular frames, is crucial to mitigate risks.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Orthopedics
- Surgical Complications
- Canine Fracture Management
Background:
- External skeletal fixators (ESF) are widely used for canine fracture repair.
- Understanding ESF-related complication risks is essential for optimal patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and evaluate the risks of complications associated with external skeletal fixator (ESF) usage in dogs.
- Identify factors influencing complication incidence and type.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for 97 dogs undergoing ESF placement.
- Analysis of complication rates based on ESF location, frame type, and patient factors.
Main Results:
- A high incidence of ESF-associated complications was observed in 79% of dogs.
- Complication rates varied significantly by ESF region (tarsus, manus, humerus most affected) and transarticular frame use.
- Superficial pin-tract infection (38%) and implant failure (17%) were the most common complications; age was also a significant factor.
Conclusions:
- Fixator-associated complications are common in dogs, primarily due to implant infections.
- ESF region and the use of transarticular frames require careful consideration during stabilization method selection to minimize risks.
Related Concept Videos
Work Done on a System by External Force
In the presence of a non-conservative opposing force, like friction, some part of the work done...
Hemodialysis II: Procedure and Complications
Fixation and Sectioning
The simplest type of preparation is the wet mount, in which the specimen is placed in a drop of liquid on the slide. A liquid specimen can be directly deposited on the slide using a dropper. Solid specimens, such as skin scraping, can be placed on the slide before adding a drop of liquid to prepare the wet mount. Sometimes the liquid is simply water, but stains are often added...
Classification of Skeletal Muscle Fibers
Slow-Twitch Muscle Fibers
Slow oxidative, muscle fibers appear red due to large numbers of capillaries and high levels of...
Internal and External Forces
External and Internal Respiration

