Experiences using the Fixin locking plate system for the stabilization of appendicular fractures in dogs

T. Nicetto; M. Petazzoni; A. Urizzi; M. Isola

doi:10.3415/VCOT-11-11-0154

Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Table of Contents

Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2013; 26(01): 61-68
DOI: 10.3415/VCOT-11-11-0154

Clinical Communication

Schattauer GmbH

Experiences using the Fixin locking plate system for the stabilization of appendicular fractures in dogs

A clinical and radiographic retrospective assessment

T. Nicetto

¹Clinica Veterinaria Milano Sud, Peschiera Borromeo, Milano, Italy

,

M. Petazzoni

¹Clinica Veterinaria Milano Sud, Peschiera Borromeo, Milano, Italy

,

A. Urizzi

²Clinica Veterinaria Dr Andrea Urizzi, San Michele al Tagliamento, Venezia, Italy

,

M. Isola

³Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Padua, Italy

› Author Affiliations

Abstract

Summary

Objectives: To retrospectively evaluate the stabilization of appendicular fractures in dogs using the Fixin locking plate system.

Materials and methods: Medical records and radiographs of dogs with fractures stabilized with the Fixin system in the period from May 2005 to September 2010 were reviewed. For each patient, data pertaining to signalment, the nature of the fracture, implants used, and evidence of fracture healing were recorded. The outcome and complications were determined from clinical and radiographic follow-up examinations. Limb function was evaluated between 40 days and 90 days postoperatively. Owners of pets with complications were contacted by phone for long-term follow-up.

Results: Eighty-two fractures in seventy-five dogs met the inclusion criteria for the study. Radiographic re-examinations were carried out between eight days to two years (median 60 days) following surgery. Seventy-three out of 82 fractures (89%) reached union without complications. Major complications were seen in six dogs (7%). Limb function was graded as ‘normal’ in 73/75 (97%) dogs and ‘mild lameness’ in 2/75 (3%) cases.

Clinical significance: Despite a modest complication rate, the Fixin locking bone plating system appears to be an acceptable choice of implant for the stabilization of appendicular fractures in dogs.

Keywords

Fracture - fixin - dog - internal fixator - osteo-synthesis

Full Text

References

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