Comparative evaluation of pin-in-fiberglass cast and Kirschner-Ehmer external fixative in the management of radius-ulna fractures in dogs

Abstract

Four adult (two males and two females) dogs were used to comparatively evaluate the effectiveness of pin-infiberglass cast with Kirschner-Ehmer type I external skeletal fixative in the management of surgically created radius-ulna fractures in dogs. These dogs were assigned to two groups (A and B) with each group made up of two dogs. The radius-ulna fracture was created in all the dogs under general anaesthesia as follows: Group A, pin-in-fiberglass casting; and Group B, Kirschner-Ehmer type I external fixation. Post-operatively, minimal increase in vital parameters were observed, but were not significant (P>0.05) when compared with preoperative values in both groups. The haematological indices were within acceptable normal limits for both group (P>0.05). Dogs in both groups bore weight on the operated limb and could walk within 24 hours postoperative. Radiographic evaluation revealed minimal soft tissue swelling and minimal periosteal tissue reaction in both groups. The Kirschner-Ehmer external fixative group attained the faster fracture healing time (7 weeks) compared to the pin-in-fiberglass group (8 weeks). Functional and cosmetic appearances were graded as excellent for both groups. Complications associated with the two techniques were cast sores in the pin-infiberglass group while pin loosening and serous pin tract drainage were observed in the Kirschner-Ehmer external fixative group. Thus, it was concluded that pin-in-fiberglass cast could be used as a satisfactory substitute to Kirschner-Ehmer type I external fixative in the management of simple radius-ulna fractures in dogs.

Cost-effectiveness of pin-in-fibreglass cast versus Kirschner-Ehmer type I external skeletal fixator in the management of transverse radius-ulna fractures in dogs

“…Group A dogs underwent pin-infiberglass cast technique while group B dogs underwent Kirschner-Ehmer type I external skeletal fixation technique for the repair of the closed, midshaft transverse radius-ulna fractures under general anaesthesia (thiopental sodium (10-20 mg/kg) for induction and ketamine hydrochloride (11-22 mg/kg) for maintenance). The pin-in-fiberglass cast fracture reduction technique for group A dogs was performed as described by Bada et al (2017) (Plate I). This was carried out by drilling two threaded positive profile transfixation pins each craniocaudally into the proximal and distal fracture segments of the fractured radius-ulna bones to exit the skin at the opposite side.…”

“…Various methods have been used in the management of radius and ulna fractures; however, external fixation methods are primarily suggested (Charles & David, 1985). Although, the use of simple external fixations are becoming more and more popular for the treatment of fractures in animals, their potentials have not been fully maximized due to the fact that the current commercially available external fixation devices are complex and expensive (Goh et al, 1997, Bada et al, 2017. The cost of treatment and medical care is an important issue all over the world (Emara et al, 2015).…”