Comparison of Cross-sectional Geometrical Properties and Bone Density between Saint-Bernard and other Giant Breed Dogs

Introduction: The experience of the authors suggests that Saint Bernard dogs are at greater risk of developing biomechanical complications after surgical limb sparing of the radius. Understanding the possible causes for this increased risk could provide valuable information as to how to manage and decrease it. The goal of this study was to investigate if physical characteristics of the radius of Saint Bernard dogs may play a role on surgical limb sparing postoperative complications.

Materials and Methods: Medical records from Saint Bernard and giant breed dogs with computed tomography imaging were reviewed. Cross-sectional parameters were measured and calculated through the distal-proximal-radial length. BMD was estimated from Hounsfield Units measurements.

Results: Thirteen dogs were selected per-group. Comparison between groups revealed multiple statistically significant differences (i.e., cortical thickness, medullary-cavity area, and cortical/medullary ratio) between groups. Cortical thickness and medullary-cavity area differences resulted in a lower cortical/medullary cavity ratio in the Saint Bernard. There was no difference in cross-sectional BMD, although the mean from all cross-sections revealed a lower BMD in the Saint Bernard.

Discussion/Conclusion: The findings reported in this study are clinically relevant as they provide valuable data for future improvement of surgical limb sparing implants, procedures, and postoperative care guidelines for these patients. Additionally, our findings suggest that the Saint Bernard might not be an adequate donor for bone allografts. Future studies are indicated to determine the significance of the difference in BMD.

Acknowledgment: There are no conflicts of interest to report.