EXPRESS: Elbow luxation treatment in cats using external fixation

ObjectivesTo describe outcomes and complications of open reduction, collateral ligament repair and temporary epoxy resin Type Ia transarticular external skeletal fixation (TaESF) in cats with traumatic lateral elbow luxation after failed closed treatment.MethodsTen cats were referred 3-4 days after injury. Closed reduction failed in four cats and reluxation occurred in six after reduction and Robert Jones bandaging. All underwent open reduction, apposition of identifiable collateral ligament ends and four-pin epoxy resin Type Ia TaESF. Clinical and orthogonal radiographic examinations were performed weekly until frame removal at 3 weeks and at 6 weeks. Lameness was graded 0-3, and Campbell's test was performed after frame removal and at 6 weeks. At 6 months, three cats underwent orthopaedic examination and seven were assessed by structured owner telephone interview. Complications were classified according to Cook et al.ResultsReduction was maintained in all cats through 6 weeks. Grade 0/1 lameness was recorded in seven/three cats at 3 weeks and eight/two cats at 6 weeks (Cases 3 and 9). Functional outcome was full in eight cats (80%) and acceptable in two (20%). A contralateral proximal ulnar fracture contributed to residual lameness in Case 3. Case 1 required unplanned intervention for proximal humeral pin migration and seroma. The pin was repositioned under sedation without replacement or additional epoxy resin. Radiolucency and periosteal reaction surrounded the distal ulnar pin. The seroma resolved without recurrence, and the frame was removed as scheduled. No comparable pin-site radiographic abnormalities were identified in the other cats. At 6 months, all cats had normal owner-reported walking, running and jumping without observable lameness.Conclusions and relevanceIn this small retrospective series, open reduction and collateral ligament repair protected by epoxy resin Type Ia TaESF maintained reduction and yielded satisfactory short-term outcomes after failed closed treatment. One cat required unplanned intervention for a pin-related complication. Comparative studies with objective long-term clinical and radiographic follow-up are warranted.