A Multicentre Retrospective Review of Laterally Plated Partial Tarsal Arthrodesis in Dogs and Cats

Introduction: This study aims to report complications and long-term owner-assessed outcomes following partial tarsal arthrodesis in dogs and cats.

Materials and Methods: Medical records (2016–2023) from three referral hospitals were reviewed retrospectively for cats and dogs with tarsal instability treated with partial tarsal arthrodesis using laterally applied plates. Data collected included signalment, concurrent orthopaedic disease, surgical technique, postoperative complications and outcomes. Long-term outcome was assessed using the canine brief pain inventory (CBPI) and feline musculoskeletal pain index (FMPI)

Results: Thirty-four dogs and nine cats met the inclusion criteria. The overall complication rate in dogs was 65%, with a major complication rate of 44%. Plantar necrosis had an incidence of 1/34. Major complications (6/34) required partial or complete implant explanation, and revision partial tarsal or pantarsal arthrodesis. Surgical Site Infection (SSI) had an incidence of 32%. In cats, 5/9 feline patients had minor complications including mild rotational deformity. One out of nine cats has a major complication (a rotational deformity) necessitating revision surgery. No feline patients had plantar necrosis or SSI. Long-term follow-up was available in 61% of dogs and 6/9 cats. Canine outcomes were excellent in 9/21 dogs, very good in 5/21, good in 2/21, fair in 4/2, and poor in 1/21. The mean feline brief pain inventory score was 3/36 indicating excellent long-term outcome.

Discussion/Conclusion: Although canine partial tarsal arthrodesis has a high major complication rate 43% of dogs will still have an excellent outcome. The major complication rate in cats is considerably lower (11%) with excellent long-term outcomes.

Publication History

Article published online:
15 July 2025