Vol. 10, Special Issue 8 (2021)

Author(s):
Tenzin Wangchuk, Jasmeet Singh Khosa, Tarunbir Singh, Jitender Mohindroo, Vandana Sangwan and Opinder Singh

Abstract:
Femoral fractures constitute approximately 20% to 25% of all fractures in dogs and represent 45% of all long-bone fractures. Various external coaptation methods for fracture immobilization are available but these conservation techniques are ineffective and generally not suited for femur fracture fixation due to abundant quadriceps musculature. This study was aimed to evaluate the outcome of a pin plate combination for repair of a comminuted diaphyseal femur fracture in dogs. This study was carried out in ten clinical cases of dogs presented to the clinics with a comminuted diaphyseal femur fracture. We used 3.5mm (7-11 holes) stainless steel locking compression plates (LCP) in combination with Steinmann pin measuring mean diameter of 37% (32-44%) of marrow cavity at isthmus. In six cases, ancillary cerclage wires were used to proximate widely apart fragments. The initial weight bearing was recorded as early as 3 days and as late as 10 days, with the mean of 6.11±0.81 days. The mean time required for full functional limb usage was 60±12.68 days with a range of 30-120 days and similarly the mean time taken to achieve radiographic union was 70±11.18 days, which ranged from 30-120 days. Plate dislodgement was observed in one case, and it was re-operated for interlocking nailing. A case of sciatic nerve paralysis was observed in one dog but it was resolved with physiotherapy and rehabilitation. The final outcome was excellent 40% (n=4) and good 30% (n=3). Therefore, the pin plate combination can be used successfully for diaphyseal comminuted femur fracture repair with good implant stability and satisfactory bone healing.