Sternal wound reconstruction with transverse locking plate fixation in two dogs

To describe the surgical technique and report the clinical outcomes of using locking plates applied transversely across the sternum as part of sternal repair after large sternectomy.

Two client-owned dogs.

Short case series.

One dog with chest wall hemangiosarcoma and one dog with chronic extensive thoracic pyogranulomatous lesion caused by Actinomyces spp. were treated by thoracic wall resection including partial sternectomy. The defect was reconstructed with multiple techniques including a locking plate secured with screws in two opposite ribs.

There were no complications related to the surgical reconstruction or implants. The first dog was euthanized at 8 months postoperatively following sudden deterioration. The second dog developed self-limiting serosanguinous discharge from 3 to 6 days postoperatively but otherwise had an uneventful recovery. No recurrence was reported 15 months post-surgery.

Use of a locking plate to span two opposite ribs in conjunction with other reconstructive techniques was a safe and effective method of treating large sternal wounds in these two dogs. This new surgical technique yielded excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes. Transverse locking plate application is a straightforward and promising option for large thoracic wall or sternal defects.