Unilateral Uniplanar External Skeletal Fixation for Isolated Diaphyseal Tibial Fractures in Skeletally Immature Dogs

Objective To report and evaluate use of external skeletal fixation (ESF) for repair of isolated (fibula intact) diaphyseal tibia fractures in skeletally immature dogs. Study Design Case series. Animals Skeletally immature (mean age, 17 weeks; range, 12-23 weeks) dogs (n=5) with isolated diaphyseal tibial fractures. Methods Medical records (2006-2007) of 5 dogs with isolated diaphyseal tibial fractures treated with Type 1a ESF were reviewed and outcome assessed by clinical examination and telephone interviews. Results Dogs were evaluated similar to 2 and 4 weeks after surgery. Limb function, muscle mass, and comfort level remained very good to excellent throughout healing. Bony union was confirmed radiographically and the ESF removed similar to 4 weeks after surgery (mean, 31.4 days; range, 28-37 days). Owner satisfaction was high when contacted a minimum of 4 weeks after ESF removal. Conclusions Use of Type Ia ESF with positive profile threaded pins is a practical and biologic method for treatment of isolated tibial fractures in skeletally immature dogs Clinical Relevance ESF is an effective alternative treatment to external coaptation and internal fixation for isolated diaphyseal tibial fractures in skeletally immature dogs.