34th Annual Scientific Meeting proceedings

Objectives:

Given the reported benefits of minimally invasive osteosynthesis (MIO) and the lack of data on elastic plate osteosynthesis (EPO) using minimally invasive approaches, this study aims to describe minimally invasive elastic plate osteosynthesis (MIEPO) of tibial diaphyseal fractures in juvenile dogs as well as to report and compare clinical outcomes to published data.

Methods:

Forty-two immature dogs were included. Bridging fixation was achieved using epiperiosteal veterinary cuttable plates inserted through small epiphyseal incisions. Radiographs were recommended until clinical union (CU). Postoperative alignment, plate bridging and span ratios and plate screw density were recorded along with tibial growth, CU time, limb function and complications.

Results:

Postoperative alignment was similar between repaired and contralateral tibiae. Implant data confirmed bridging osteosynthesis in all cases. A soft-padded bandage, used in 4 cases, was removed within 4 days. Mean CU time was 12.7±4.3 days in 36 cases with radiographic follow-up. Of these, 19 dogs were lameness-free at CU while the remaining dogs showed occasional, subtle, lameness. Normal function was reported in six dogs lost to follow-up. Minor complications occurred in 2 cases. No major complications were reported.

Conclusions:

The synergy between the biological and mechanical benefits of MIO and EPO techniques in juvenile tibial diaphyseal fractures yielded faster healing times and lower complication rates than those reported with either technique alone. Potential MIEPO benefits include shorter activity restriction times, while avoiding drawbacks of external coaptation as well as repair failure via screw pull-out that has been reported following rigid plate osteosynthesis.