Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cat shoulder fusion surgery using 3D-printed guides
By Motta, Claudio et al.·Published in Veterinary and comparative orthopaedics and traumatology : V.C.O.T·2026·Southern Counties Veterinary Specialists, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
PetCaseFinder translated the abstract of this peer-reviewed paper into plain English so pet owners can read it. We do not publish original research — every detail traces back to the citation above. How we work →
Original publication title: Feline Shoulder Arthrodesis Using 3D-printed Patient-specific Guides.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
Four cats with shoulder problems underwent surgery to fix their shoulders using special 3D-printed guides designed just for them. These guides helped the veterinarians place the implants accurately during the procedure. After the surgeries, the cats showed good improvement in how they moved and were more active. The follow-up evaluations confirmed that the surgeries were successful, suggesting that using 3D-printed guides can lead to better results in shoulder surgeries for cats.
Abstract
This case series aims to explore the application of 3D-printed patient-specific guides (PSG) in feline shoulder arthrodesis, addressing the scarcity of literature on this procedure in cats. The primary objectives include assessing the feasibility, accuracy, and outcomes of the procedure in four feline cases.The study employed a retrospective analysis of cases involving feline shoulder arthrodesis performed using PSG. Surgical planning utilized CAD-based techniques, and 3D-printed guides were created for precise osteotomies and implant placement. Follow-ups included radiographic assessments, re-examinations, and owner-reported outcomes.Four feline cases with distinct shoulder issues were successfully treated using PSG. Postoperative management, radiographic evaluations, and long-term follow-ups revealed positive outcomes in terms of limb function and patient activity. The study demonstrates the potential of PSG in achieving accurate humeroscapular alignment in feline shoulder arthrodesis.This case series highlights the clinical significance of PSG in enhancing the precision of humeroscapular alignment during feline shoulder arthrodesis. The positive outcomes observed in various shoulder pathologies suggest that this technique could contribute to improved surgical outcomes.
Find similar cases for your pet
PetCaseFinder finds other peer-reviewed reports of pets with the same symptoms, plus a plain-English summary of what was tried across them.
Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39889746/