Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How an elastic fixator helped pets with elbow injuries
By Vedrine, Bertrand·Published in The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne·2017·Clinique Vé, France·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Use of an elastic transarticular external fixator construct for immobilization of the elbow joint.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 2-year-old mixed-breed dog was brought in for a dislocated elbow and a torn triceps tendon. The veterinarian performed surgery to fix the tendon and then used a special elastic device to stabilize the elbow joint. Most pets treated with this method did well, with two cats recovering excellently and one dog showing good improvement. Unfortunately, one dog did not recover well due to a permanent nerve issue. Overall, the elastic fixator allowed for joint movement during healing, helping pets return to normal activity sooner.
People also search for: dog elbow dislocation treatment · triceps tendon injury in dogs · how to help dog recover from elbow surgery
Abstract
Transarticular external skeletal fixation usually involves rigid bars that result in a stable but stiff joint. This study describes the technique and the outcome of an elastic transarticular external fixator (ETEF) applied to the elbow joint. Four cases of elbow luxation with collateral ligament injuries were managed with closed reduction and application of an ETEF to maintain the reduction. A triceps tendon avulsion was surgically managed before applying an ETEF. The clinical outcome was considered excellent in 2 cats, good in 2 dogs (1 elbow luxation and the avulsion of the triceps tendon), and poor in 1 dog presented for elbow luxation and a permanent neurological defect. The procedure was rapid, easy to perform, and inexpensive. All animals except the one with a neurological defect had an early return to weight bearing. This method maintains extension of the joint while permitting its motion thereby promoting rehabilitation.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28373726/