Abstract
Objective
To report complications and long-term outcomes of partial tarsal arthrodesis (ParTA)
in dogs and cats.
Study Design
Retrospective observational study.
Methods
Medical records (2016–2023) were reviewed for cases with tarsal instability treated
with ParTA using laterally applied plates. Data collected included signalment, concurrent
orthopedic disease, surgical technique, postoperative complications, and outcomes.
Long-term outcome was assessed using the canine brief pain inventory (CBPI) and feline
musculoskeletal pain index (FMPI).
Results
A total of 34 dogs and 9 cats met the inclusion criteria. The overall complication
rate in dogs was 22/34 with a major complication rate of 15/34. Plantar necrosis had
an incidence of 1/34. Major I complications (6/34) required partial or complete explantation,
revision partial tarsal or pantarsal arthrodesis. Incidence of surgical site infection
was 11/34. Minor complications occurred in cats 5/9, including mild rotational deformity,
while only 1/9 cats had a major complication (rotational deformity) requiring revision
surgery. Long-term follow-up was available in 21/34 dogs and 6/9 cats. Canine outcomes
were excellent or very good in 14/21 dogs. The mean FMPI was 3/36 indicating very
good long-term outcome.
Conclusion
Although canine ParTA has high major complication rate, 14/21 dogs had an excellent
or very good long-term outcome. Cats had a low major complication rate and very good
long-term outcomes.
Keywords
canine - feline - partial tarsal arthrodesis - complications - outcome
