A Clinical Evaluation of Pancarpal Arthrodesis in Nine Dogs Using Circular External Skeletal Fixation

Abstract

Pancarpal arthrodesis by use of CESF is a clinically applicable technique and may offer advantages over internal fixation with respect to postoperative complications.

Clinical Evaluation of Pancarpal Arthrodesis Using a CastLess Plate in 11 Dogs

“…External coaptation is not without the potential for inherent minor or major complications 3,14,15 and when used requires meticulous management by, and a further financial commitment from, the client in the postoperative period. 16 In a review of 11 ischemic bandage injuries, 5 resulted from application of a bandage or splint for injuries distal to the elbow. 15 Morbidity associated with external coaptation after partial carpal arthrodesis was reported in 35% of procedures.…”

“…The CLP manufacturer has proposed that improved mechanical characteristics circumvent the requirement for postoperative external coaptation. External coaptation is not without the potential for inherent minor or major complications 3,14,15 and when used requires meticulous management by, and a further financial commitment from, the client in the postoperative period 16 . In a review of 11 ischemic bandage injuries, 5 resulted from application of a bandage or splint for injuries distal to the elbow 15 .…”

Clinical Comparison of the Hybrid Dynamic Compression Plate and the Castless Plate for Pancarpal Arthrodesis in 219 Dogs

“…Pancarpal arthrodesis (PCA) in dogs and cats is used as a salvage procedure for treatment of end‐stage carpal conditions such as hyperextension, degenerative joint disease, congenital malformations and fractures, and luxations where conservative management has failed or is inappropriate. Surgical techniques used to achieve carpal arthrodesis include application of a plate to the dorsal, medial or palmar surfaces, or external skeletal fixation, with or without crossed K‐wires …”

A Biomechanical Evaluation of a Hybrid Dynamic Compression Plate and a CastLess Arthrodesis Plate for Pancarpal Arthrodesis in Dogs

“…Arthrodesis techniques differ in technical difficulty and outcome. Currently, the most commonly performed treatment involves a dorsally applied plate with screws …”

“…Other modifications such as combining crossed K‐wires with a dorsally applied bone plate has been postulated to negate the need for casting; this is supported by biomechanical studies that have shown a significantly higher yield failure when compared with a plate alone . As an alternative to plating, external skeletal fixators, both linear and circular, can be successfully used for carpal arthrodesis and compare favorably to dynamic compression plates (DCP) in mechanical testing and clinical outcome . On balance, however, dorsal plating has remained popular because of its relatively straightforward surgical approach, ability to apply compression across the arthrodesis, acceptable complication rates with perceived good outcomes, and familiarity with the technique.…”