Elbow fusion surgery for chronic broken elbow in Spaniel dogs

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To report outcomes of elbow arthrodesis as a salvage procedure for chronic humeral condylar fractures in five dogs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All dogs presented with chronic, irreparable humeral condylar fractures following failed primary repairs. Elbow arthrodesis was performed via a caudolateral approach with olecranon osteotomy. The articular surfaces were debrided, and fixation was achieved with one 2.7-mm locking plate applied caudally and one applied laterally, augmented with cancellous bone graft and bone morphogenetic proteins. Data collected included history, signalment, occurrence of complications and outcomes. Postoperative follow-up involved radiographs at 6 weeks, long-term reassessment, static weight distribution analysis and owner-completed questionnaires supplemented with functional assessment questions. RESULTS: All dogs achieved near-complete radiographic healing of the arthrodesis by a mean of 9.2 weeks. Four minor complications were observed, including pin migration, seroma formation and implant breakage. No major complications were recorded. At long-term reassessment, performed at a median of 13 months, all dogs used the operated limb during ambulation, though mechanical lameness and static weight avoidance were consistent. Owner assessments indicated satisfactory quality of life. Static weight distribution analysis revealed reduced load on the arthrodesis limb. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Elbow arthrodesis using double-plate fixation and recombinant bone morphogenetic proteins offers an effective salvage option for irreparable humeral condylar fractures in spaniel breed dogs. The technique achieved reliable fusion with minimal complications and acceptable function, though reduced weight-bearing in static positions persisted.