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DOI: 10.1055/s-0045-1810305
Comparison of Tibial Alignment Following Bent or Straight Interlocking Nail Fixation for Dogs with Diaphyseal Tibial Fractures
Introduction: The recommended technique for interlocking nail (ILN) fixation of diaphyseal tibia fractures in dogs involves contouring the implant by 10 degrees to enhance strength and restore anatomical alignment. Increased tibial plateau angle (TPA) is linked to cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture risk. This study aims to assess changes in tibial alignment, including TPA, between straight and bent ILN fixation techniques.
Materials and Methods: Medical records from 2014 to 2024 were compiled, categorizing cases into bent (ILNb, n = 27) and straight (ILNs, n = 19) ILN groups. TPA, coronal angulation (CA), and mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA) were calculated and compared with the contralateral limb, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Postoperative TPA increased 5 degrees in the ILNs group and 1 degree in the ILNb group (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0377, respectively). Postoperative CA of the ILNs and ILNb groups increased by 2 degrees of valgus (p < 0.0059 and p < 0.0301, respectively). No changes in mMPTA were noted.
Discussion/Conclusion: The ILNb technique produces a near-anatomic TPA, while the ILN technique increases the TPA by approximately 5 degrees. No other differences in tibial alignment were identified. The increased TPA could be attributed to the tibia’s natural procurvatum, which may not be adequately accommodated by a straight nail. Further research on the clinical implications of these findings and the risk of CCL rupture is needed.
Acknowledgment
None.
Publication History
Article published online:
15 July 2025
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