Bone Alignment after Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis of the Tibia in Dogs

Introduction: This study assessed radiographical changes in tibial alignment in the frontal and sagittal planes in dogs that underwent minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) without the aid of image intensifiers.

Materials and Methods: Radiographs of dogs with complete non-articular tibial fractures submitted to MIPO were included and evaluated, without the aid of a transoperative image intensifier and / or an association of implants. The tibial mechanical angles (mMPTA, mMDTA, mCaPTA, and mCrDTA) were measured by three evaluators. The data obtained were compared with Results from previously published studies.

Results: Twenty-seven animals were included in the study. The mean and standard deviation of the angular changes were as follows: mMPTA, 2.54 ± 3.10 degrees (−1.1 to 8.7 degrees); mMDTA, 0.03 ± 0.16 degrees (−3.44 to 0.79 degrees); mCaPTA, 37 ± 4.29 degrees (−6.23 to 14.87 degrees); and mCrDTA, 8.25 ± 5.53 degrees (−0.2 to 17.28 degrees).

Discussion/Conclusion: Biological osteosynthesis has been the centre of attention in fracture management in recent years and its benefits are indisputable. Relevant success rates have been reported; however, potential complications still exist. Our Results allow us to confirm the hypothesis that the treatment of non-articular tibial fractures with the MIPO technique may cause angular alteration, with even higher rates than what has been previously reported. MIPO of the tibia without using image intensifiers and implant association can potentially cause angular changes, which can lead to clinically relevant deformities after bone healing.

Acknowledgement: This study was funded by the Sao Paulo State Foundation – FAPESP (2012/20642–4 and 2012/16712–7).

Publication History

Article published online:
26 October 2022