Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Tarsometatarsal joint fusion in dogs and cats using intramedullary
By Chow, Eric P & Balfour, Raviv J·Published in Veterinary surgery : VS·2012·Department of Surgery, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Tarsometatarsal arthrodesis using tarsometatarsal intramedullary pin stabilization.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of dogs and cats with unstable tarsometatarsal joints (the joints in the foot) underwent a surgical procedure using intramedullary pins for stabilization. The surgery involved removing the damaged joint surface and inserting pins to help the bones fuse together. After the procedure, all the pets showed signs of successful healing, with most returning to normal activity levels. One dog did experience some skin issues at the pin site, but overall, the treatment was effective and had a low risk of serious complications.
People also search for: dog foot joint instability treatment · cat tarsometatarsal surgery recovery · dog surgery for foot problems
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To report the use of tarsometatarsal intramedullary pin stabilization for arthrodesis of the tarsometatarsal joint. STUDY DESIGN: Case series. ANIMALS: Dogs (n = 12) and cats (n = 2) with tarsometatarsal instability. METHODS: Medical records (January 2004-February 2011) were reviewed for dogs and cats with tarsometatarsal instability repaired with intramedullary pin stabilization. After a dorsal approach to the tarsometatarsal joint, the articular surface was removed, and intramedullary pins were inserted through the metatarsal bones into the distal tarsal bones. Stabilization was supplemented with external coaptation until healing occurred. The intramedullary pins were removed after radiographic evidence of arthrodesis. RESULTS: Radiographic evidence of bony fusion across the tarsometatarsal joint occurred in all animals. One major complication occurred, with skin necrosis at a single pin site requiring surgical debridement at the pin site. Follow-up (mean, 107 weeks) was available for 13 cases; 12 were reported to be completely sound, and 1 dog was ambulating normally at a walk but favored the leg when running. CONCLUSION: Tarsometatarsal intramedullary pin stabilization can be used for the treatment of tarsometatarsal instability with a low risk of major complications.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22759235/