Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2014; 27(03): 179-185
DOI: 10.3415/VCOT-13-05-0063
Original Research
Schattauer GmbH

Clinical assessment of a shaft screw for stabilization of the humeral condyle in dogs

A. P. Moores
1   Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists, Bunstead Barns, Hursley, Winchester, Hampshire, UK
,
M. S. Tivers
2   Cave Veterinary Specialists, George’s Farm, West Buckland, Wellington, Devon, UK
,
J. Grierson
1   Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists, Bunstead Barns, Hursley, Winchester, Hampshire, UK
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Received 23 May 2013

Accepted 22 February 2013

Publication Date:
21 December 2017 (online)

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Summary

Objective: To report the use of a 4.5 mm shaft screw for the management of humeral condylar fractures (HCF) and incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC) in dogs, and to assess risk factors for complications.

Methods: Dogs with HCF or IOHC that were managed with a 4.5 mm shaft screw with a minimum follow-up of six months from surgery were included. Data from the case records were used to identify risk factors for complications. Long-term follow-up was provided by an owner questionnaire and veterinary re-examination.

Results: Forty-three elbows were treated in 40 dogs (14 IOHC, 29 HCF). Minor complications were seen in four cases (9%) and major complications in 10 cases (23%). There were no statistically significant risk factors for major complication. Infection resulted in shaft screw removal from three IOHC cases. Four of eight IOHC cases that had a lateral approach had a major complication compared with zero out of six dogs that had a medial approach, but this difference was not significant (p = 0.085). Nine of 12 IOHC cases and 20/23 HCF cases had excellent or good limb use at the time of long-term follow- up (median of 106 weeks, range 26–227 weeks). All fractures healed but IOHC fissure healing was inconsistent. Fatigue failure of shaft screws was not seen.

Clinical significance: The use of shaft screws for the management of IOHC and HCF is associated with a relatively low rate of complications (compared to previous reports) and a good long-term outcome.