Application of epoxy putty external skeletal fixator for stabilization of tarsocrural arthrodesis in small dogs and cats
10.14405/kjvr.2020.60.4.187
- Author:
Je-Sung MOON
1
;
June-Sub LEE
;
Hyun-Jung HAN
Author Information
1. Department of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, Konkuk Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
- Publication Type:ORIGINAL ARTICLE
- From:Korean Journal of Veterinary Research
2020;60(4):187-194
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Two small-breed dogs and two cats, with an average body weight of 4.88 kg (range: 4.3–5.5 kg), suffered hindlimb lameness due to luxation with or without fractures of the tarsocrural joint. These patients underwent tarsocrural arthrodesis with epoxy putty external skeletal fixator. The animals’ skins were incised minimally, and the articular cartilage of the tarsocrural joint was removed, followed by autogenous cancellous bone grafting. Epoxy putty and positive Centerface®, pins with diameters 1.2 mm and 2.0 mm, were used for connecting bar and as a full pin fixation, respectively. All the patients regained the ability to bear weight on the affected limb within 3–7 days and resumed a normal gait within 9–15 weeks. The external skeletal fixator frame was removed within 13–17 weeks without major complications. Tarsocrural arthrodesis using epoxy putty external skeletal fixator resulted in excellent outcomes without severe postoperative complications in this study. Epoxy putty external skeletal fixator can be a valuable surgical option for tarsocrural arthrodesis in patients weighing less than 5.5 kg.
