Single Transsacral Screw and Nut Stabilization of Bilateral Sacroiliac Luxation in 20 Cats.

OBJECTIVE:  This article aims to describe the use of a single transsacral screw and nut in a cohort of cats with bilateral sacroiliac (SI) luxation and document its radiographic and clinical outcome.

METHODS:  Medical records and radiographic studies of cats with bilateral SI luxation managed with a transsacral screw and nut stabilization were reviewed. Short-term follow-up included clinical examination and radiographs. Long-term follow-up was via owner questionnaire.

RESULTS:  Twenty consecutive cats with bilateral SI luxation were included. Six cats (35%) had additional musculoskeletal injuries that required stabilization. Luxations were stabilized with a single 2.7 cortical self-tapping transsacral screw and nylon nut (a metallic nut was used in one case). Postoperative radiographs confirmed SI reduction in all cats and a mean pelvic canal width ratio of 1.21 (a ratio of ≥1.1 was considered optimal). All cats available at follow-up examination were able to walk without signs of discomfort. Evaluation of follow-up radiographs showed maintenance of SI reduction and slight reduction of mean pelvic canal width ratio (1.18). Fourteen owner questionnaires were returned (median follow-up time of 40 months): nine cats were deemed to have normal activity and five cats were reported to have slight to mild reduced ability to jump or run.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:  The use of transsacral screw and nut stabilization of bilateral SI luxation in cats is a successful, repeatable and safe technique.