Use of an acrylic trans-articular external skeletal fixator for joint immobilisation following multiligamentous stifle injury in 6 cats; technique description and outcomes.

Autor: B. J., McRae, R. M., Basa, A. S., Levien
Předmět:
Zdroj: Australian Veterinary Practitioner; Jul2023, Vol. 53 Issue 3, p91-99, 9p
Abstrakt: Introduction: The purpose of this retrospective study is to report the management of multiligamentous stifle injury in 6 cats using an acrylic transarticular external skeletal fixator (ATEF) as a method for temporary immobilisation of the stifle joint to support ligament augmentation. Methods: Cats (n=6) presenting with catastrophic stifle instability treated with ligament repair or replacement were retrospectively reviewed from March 2018 to July 2021. Following stifle joint arthrotomy, reduction and ligament augmentation, the stifle was temporarily immobilised at a standing angle with a modified uniplanar ATEF applied laterally with 3-4 pins in the femur and tibia. Outcome was evaluated based on follow up rechecks, radiographs, telephone followup and use of the feline musculoskeletal pain index. Results: All cats returned to normal activity with full function of the affected limb. All cats had low scores on the feline musculoskeletal pain index at the time of follow up. No major complications requiring revision surgery were observed. Minor complications occurred in three out of six cases including pin loosening and fracture of the acrylic mould. Conclusions: The application of an ATEF for temporary immobilisation of the stifle appears to be a feasible and technically simple technique to use in the management of multi-ligamentous stifle injury in cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index