Feline Distal Tibial Physeal Fracture Repair Using a Modified Cross-Pin Technique with Four Pins

Abstract

Objective The aim of this article was to report the surgical technique and clinical outcome of a modified cross-pin technique for the treatment of distal tibial physeal fractures in cats without postoperative external coaptation.

Study Design This study was a retrospective clinical study.

Animals A total of 9 cats were presented with fracture of the distal tibial physis.

Materials and Methods Medical records from July 2014 to September 2018 were reviewed. In all cases, a second medial and a craniolateral Kirschner wires were added to the traditional cross-pin technique. Information reviewed included orthogonal radiographs pre- and post-surgery and at subsequent re-examinations, subjective assessment of lameness and passive range of motion, veterinary clinical assessment and completion of a functional questionnaire (feline musculoskeletal pain index) at the time of writing this report. Eight owners completed the questionnaire. The mean questionnaire follow-up time was 12.7 months.

Results Uncomplicated fracture healing occurred in all patients. Two patients required implant removal due to Kirschner wire migration and protrusion through the skin at 5 and 12 months post-surgery. No other complications were noticed. Eight patients had an excellent outcome, and one patient had a good outcome.

Conclusion Distal tibial physeal fractures in cats can be treated successfully with the use of a modified cross-pin technique and without the use of external coaptation. Prognosis should be considered favourable for this type of fracture.

Keywords

fracture repair - physeal fracture - feline - tibia - physis

Authors’ Contributions

Diogo Miraldo and Russell Yeadon contributed to conception of study, study design, acquisition of data and data analysis and interpretation. Bettina Salmelin contributed to acquisition of data and data analysis and interpretation. All authors drafted, revised and approved the submitted manuscript.

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