Evaluation of distal femur fractures in cats by hybrid external fixator

Abstract

In this research, the clinical and radiological findings after the treatment of distal femoral fractures in cats using hybrid external fixator were evaluated. The research material consisted of totally 10 cats with different ages, races and sexes that were clinically diagnosed with femoral fracture. Hybrid external fixators configured by both circular and linear fixators were used as osteosynthesis materials in the study. Two cases with closed fractures were applied with closed reduction and external fixation methods whereas 8 cases diagnosed with open fracture or excessive dislocation underwent limited open reduction and external fixation. The radiological examination findings revealed that fracture consolidation started on the postoperative 7th and 10th days in 9 and 1 cases, respectively. Bone healing was completed (formation of osseous callus was detected) in 4, 5 and 6 weeks in 2, 2 and 6 cases, respectively. The fixators of all the patients were removed 1 week after completion of healing. In the study, soft tissue complications such as edema of the related extremity, mild pin-base infection and open fracture wound were determined in 3, 3 and 4 cases, respectively. However, these complications were found not to negatively affect the healing time of the fractures. As a consequence, it was concluded according to the data obtained from this study that distal femoral fractures in the cats within the age and weight range of the study can be successfully treated using hybrid external fixator method