NM Fitzpatrick, J O’Riordan, R Yeadon.
Fitzpatrick Referrals, Farnham, United Kingdom

ACVS Abstract 2007 

Traumatic and degenerative injuries of the canine tarsus are common. Arthrodesis may be required for pain-free function. We proposed that partial tarsal arthrodesis (PARTA) could be achieved by linear external skeletal fixation (LESF) irrespective of injury configuration via a limited approach and minimising complications associated with concomitant injuries. Clinical and radiographic records of dogs undergoing PARTA by LESF were reviewed. 

Articular cartilage was removed via limited medial or lateral approach and cancellous bone graft applied. A calcaneal intra-medullary pin stabilised the tarsus during uniplanar or modified biplanar Type 1 LESF application as required by injury configuration and was subsequently tied into the ESF. Postoperative management included cage or room rest until radiographic union. 12 dogs, 13 tarsi were operated. Injuries included plantar instability, fracture, tarsometatarsal luxation and intertarsal luxation.

ESF destaging occurred at 45.3 _ 10.1 days (n¼6). Radiographic union and frame removal occurred at mean 56 _ 10.1days. Limb use occurred by 8 days post-operatively and final clinical outcome was excellent for all cases.

Complications included pin breakage, distal limb swelling and calcaneal pin tract pathology. Medial or lateral uniplanar frames with calcaneal tie-in are applicable for most tarsal injuries. Calcaneal pin placement facilitates joint alignment prior to frame application. External coaptation was not employed for any case. Time to union was comparable with internal fixation techniques.

Management of concomitant soft tissue injury was facilitated by the frame. Versatility enables treatment irrespective of fracture/luxation configuration or concomitant injury and observes principles of biologic osteosynthesis. LESF application is a viable technique for PARTA in dogs.