Long-Term Follow-up of Conservative Management of Sacroiliac Luxation in Dogs

Introduction: Sacroiliac (SI) luxation is a common injury in dogs and is frequently associated with vehicular trauma. Conservative management of unilateral or bilateral SI luxations is not often recommended; however, the author’s clinical impression is that dogs can do well with conservative management, even with substantial displacement. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of dogs with SI luxation treated without surgery. We hypothesized that dogs with SI luxations, treated conservatively, would have a favorable long-term outcome.

Materials and Methods: Medical records were retrospectively evaluated. Follow-up was obtained via phone interview. Measurements of ventrodorsal pelvic radiographs were performed to assess the degree of luxation using a ratio of ilial wing displacement relative to sacral length.

Results: Eleven dogs were included, with mean a follow-up time of 54 ± 47 months. Mean cranial displacement of the ilial wing relative to sacral length at the time of injury was 43.1% ± 22.3% (range, 9–86%). Percent cranial displacement at follow-up was significantly decreased (p < 0.03). Nine owners (82%) reported an excellent recovery, indicating no current lameness. Two dogs were reported to exhibit occasional or regular lameness. No dogs were reported to have a poor outcome. Nine of 11 (82%) dogs were bearing weight on their injured limb within 2 weeks following injury. Seven dogs (64%) had complete resolution of lameness within 2 months following injury.

Discussion/Conclusion: Based on radiographic measurements and owner follow-up, conservative, nonsurgical management can be an effective and appropriate management strategy for dogs with SI luxation.

Acknowledgment: None.

No conflict of interest has been declared by the author(s).