Type Ia External Skeletal Fixation with Caudal External Coaptation for Radius and Ulna Fractures in Small Breed Dogs

Introduction: The objective was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of Type Ia ESF with caudal splint external coaptation (ESF-CS) for radius/ulna (RU) fractures in young, small breed dogs and to document the type and frequency of complications of ESF-CS in comparison to open reduction internal fixation with caudal splint external coaptation (ORIF-CS). We hypothesized that a Type Ia ESF-CS would result in shorter healing times compared to ORIF-CS and that both groups would have similar complications rates.

Materials and Methods: Records were retrospectively reviewed from 2017 to 2022. For inclusion criteria, dogs were ≤1 year of age and weigh <10 kg. Group-ESF included patients that underwent Type 1a ESF-CS and Group-ORIF included dogs that underwent ORIF-CS. Two-sample t-tests were used for comparison (p < 0.05).

Results: Group-ESF (n = 10) had statistically significantly shorter times for splint removal, bandage removal, and declared healed on radiographs compared to group-ORIF (n = 15). For complications, two dogs refractured following ESF removal, requiring external coaptation until healed. Two ORIF cases fractured in additional locations and required surgical revision.

Discussion/Conclusion: Results supported our hypothesis that Type Ia ESF-CS results in shorter healing times for RU fractures compared to ORIF-CS in young, small breed dogs. Similar complication rates between both groups were observed. Further investigation is required to determine reasons for shorter healing times for group-ESF compared to group-ORIF. Clinically, this technique can be economical to use, requiring little inventory for hospitals and provides overall positive outcomes for RU fractures in young, small breed dogs.

Acknowledgements: There was no proprietary interest or funding provided for this project.

Publikationsverlauf

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
11. September 2023