Abstract
Objective
To determine (1) whether the tibial plateau angle (TPA) in dogs with Salter–Harris
type 1 (SH-1) or type 2 (SH-2) fractures of the proximal tibial physis significantly
decreases in the time between diagnosis and reevaluation following surgical repair
and (2) whether the method of surgical repair influences the change in TPA over time.
Study Design
This study was a retrospective study. Medical records from 2017 to 2022 were reviewed
to identify dogs with SH-1 or SH-2 fractures of the proximal tibial physis that had
undergone surgical repair with Kirschner wires (K-wires), with or without a tibial
tuberosity tension band. The TPA of the affected limb was measured by four investigators
on radiographs taken prior to surgery, immediately postoperatively and at 4–8 weeks
follow-up, with the average values recorded.
Results
A total of 32 dogs, 22 fractures repaired with K-wires and a tension band, and 10
with K-wires only. There was a mean decrease in TPA from injury to first reevaluation
of 5.89 degrees (p < 0.001) and from immediately postoperatively to first reevaluation of 2.2 degrees
(p = 0.018); however, no significant decrease in TPA was observed when comparing fractures
repaired with or without a tension band.
Conclusion
The TPA of dogs with SH-1 and SH-2 fractures of the proximal tibial physis decreased
in the reevaluation interim following repair with K-wires with or without a tension
band. Despite initial imperfect reduction, the risk of cranial cruciate ligament rupture
may not be increased, potentially reducing the need for additional surgery if high
TPA is observed postoperatively. This study was overrepresented by small breeds, and
future studies on large and giant breeds with extended follow-up would be indicated.
Keywords
proximal tibial physeal fracture - tibial plateau angle - Salter–Harris fracture -
tension band - dog
