Evaluation of Tibial Fracture Stabilization Using Minimally Invasive Elastic Plate Osteosynthesis in 47 Juvenile Dogs

Introduction: Given the reported benefits of minimally invasive osteosynthesis (MIO) and the absence of data on elastic plate osteosynthesis (EPO) using minimally invasive approaches, our aims were to (1) describe minimally invasive elastic plate osteosynthesis (MIEPO) of tibial diaphyseal fractures in juvenile dogs and (2) report and compare clinical outcomes to published data.

Materials and Methods: Bridging fixation was achieved using epiperiosteal veterinary cuttable plates through small epiphyseal incisions. Radiographs were recommended until clinical union (CU) or boney union (BU). Postoperative alignment, plate bridging and span ratios, and plate screw density were recorded along with tibial growth, CU and BU time, limb function and complications.

Results: Forty-seven dogs were included. Postoperative alignment was within 2 degrees of contralateral tibiae. Implant data confirmed bridging osteosynthesis in all cases. Mean CU and BU times were 12.2 ± 4.4 and 25.3 ± 7.1 days, respectively, in 41 cases with radiographic follow-up. By the last radiographic recheck 41/47 dogs were lameness-free and normal function was reported in the six dogs lost to radiographic follow-up. Superficial skin infection occurred in two cases. No major complications were reported.

Discussion/Conclusion: The synergy between the biological and mechanical benefits of MIO and EPO techniques in juvenile tibial diaphyseal fractures yielded faster healing times and lower complication rates than those reported with either technique alone. Repair failure via screw pull-out historically reported following rigid plate osteosynthesis in juvenile bone was not documented in this study. Additional MIEPO benefits include shorter activity restriction times while avoiding drawbacks of external coaptation.

Acknowledgment

None.

 

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Publication History

Article published online:
15 July 2025