Correction of craniodorsal coxofemoral luxation in cats and small breed dogs using a modified Knowles technique with the braided polyblend TightRope™ systems

Objectives: To report the surgical technique and short-term radiographic and functional outcome data for a series of client owned, small breed dogs and cats treated for traumatic craniodorsal coxofemoral luxation using open reduction and internal fixation with the Arthrex Mini Tight Rope (mTR) and Tight Rope (TR) systems. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively from the clinical case records, including the initial clinical and radiographic findings, surgical technique, and postoperative short-term clinical and radiographic data. Functional data collected after the six weeks reassessment were obtained via owner questionnaire. Results: Four cats (mTR = 4) and five small breed dogs (mean weight 15 kg; TR = 4, mTR = 1) were included. Median time to postoperative weight bearing was one day. Median lameness score at six weeks postoperatively was 0 out of 5. Coxofemoral joint congruity was radiographically confirmed at the six weeks postoperative visit. Telephone follow-up (at a median of 16 weeks) revealed all animals had returned to their previous level of activity. Complications were minor, and limited to postoperative swelling (n = 1). Clinical significance: Clinical use of the Arthrex Mini TightRope (TM) and TightRope (TM) systems can be recommended for traumatic craniodorsal coxofemoral luxation in this novel application as short-term results are at least comparable to existing surgical techniques. Long-term follow-up studies are needed.