Short- to mid-term outcome and complications of closing tibial wedge osteotomy using anatomically contoured locking compression plates in small to medium breed dogs.

Abstract

The objective of this retrospective case series was to report overall peri-operative complications, short- to mid-term outcome, and owner satisfaction of closing tibial wedge osteotomy (CTWO) using locking compression plates, in dogs weighing ≤ 20 kg, for the treatment of cranial cruciate ligament disease. Medical records from 2015 to 2020 were reviewed for surgical technique, intraoperative findings, and complications. Pre- and postoperative radiographs were evaluated for healing, complications, and tibial plateau angles (TPAs). A follow-up telephone questionnaire was used to evaluate patient outcome and owner satisfaction. Eighty-one client-owned dogs (12.0 kg ± 3.0 kg; 95% CI: 8.4 to 15.5) (N = 89 stifles) were included in the study. Mean tibial plateau angles at preoperative, postoperative, and 8-week follow-up were 29.7° ± 4.1° (95% CI: 25.5 to 33.8), 6.7° ± 2.6° (95% CI: 4.2 to 9.2), and 7.8° ± 2.4° (95% CI: 4.9 to 10.6), respectively. Tibial plateau angles had significantly increased at the 8-week follow-up assessment by 1.04° ± 1.8°; 95% CI: -0.8 to -2.8) compared to immediately postoperative. The postoperative complication rate was 4.49% (4 cases). Overall satisfaction was excellent with good return to limb function. Closing tibial wedge osteotomy can be performed in dogs ≤ 20 kg, using locking compression plates, achieving excellent overall owner satisfaction and return to function.