Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Pinning surgery for lower thigh bone fractures in 31 cats
By Bondonny, Laura et al.·Published in Veterinary and comparative orthopaedics and traumatology : V.C.O.T·2024·Service de Chirurgie, France·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Use of a Modified Intramedullary Pinning Technique for Distal Femoral Physeal Salter-Harris Type I and II Fracture Management: A Retrospective Study of 31 Cats.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A group of 31 cats with fractures in the lower part of their thigh bone (distal femoral physeal fractures) were treated using a special pinning technique to help their bones heal. After surgery, all the cats showed signs of healing on X-rays within 6 to 8 weeks, and most of them were able to return to normal activity without any issues. Only one cat experienced a minor complication, but no problems with the pins were reported, and none needed to have the pins removed. Overall, this method proved to be effective for helping cats recover from these types of fractures.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE:  To report a modified intramedullary pinning technique, and associated outcomes, for distal femoral physeal Salter-Harris type I and II fracture management in cats. STUDY DESIGN:  Retrospective study including client-owned cats presented between November 2014 and February 2022 with distal femoral physeal fractures treated with an intramedullary pin and one antirotational pin inserted in the lateral femoral condyle. Collected data included signalment, fracture characteristics according to the Salter-Harris classification, surgical data (intramedullary and antirotational pin sizes), and outcome data (radiographic and functional outcomes and complications). RESULTS:  Thirty-one cats were included in this study. Bone healing was radiographically confirmed 6 to 8 weeks postoperatively in all cases. The majority of cats (30/31) were classified as full functional outcomes at mid-term follow-up. The overall mid-term complication rate was 3% (1/31). Implant migration was not observed and implant removal was not needed in any case. CONCLUSION:  The modified intramedullary pinning technique for distal femoral Salter-Harris I and II fracture management in cats was associated with an full functional outcome.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37907243/