Clinical Outcomes and Complications after Open Reduction and Internal Fixation Utilizing Conventional Plates in 65 Distal Radial and Ulnar Fractures of Miniature- and Toy-Breed Dogs.

OBJECTIVE:  This article aims to evaluate clinical outcomes and complications of distal radial and ulnar fractures in miniature- and toy-breed dogs treated with conventional bone plate fixation.

METHODS:  Medical records (2001-2010) of miniature- and toy-breed dogs with distal radial and ulnar fractures repaired with open reduction and internal fixation utilizing conventional plates were reviewed. The inclusion criteria were body weight of <7 kg, fracture located in the distal antebrachium (distal-to-total radial length ratio < 0.4) and follow-up radiographs available.

RESULTS:  All 65 fractures healed without developing non-union, and had a successful return to normal function (median follow-up: 73 months; range: 2-149 months). Minor complication in seven fractures and major complication in four fractures were identified.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:  Open reduction and conventional plate fixation of distal radial and ulnar fractures in miniature- and toy-breed dogs are effective means of fixation that result in normal functional outcome without developing non-union.