EFFICACY OF ACRYLIC BONE PLATES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF LONG BONE FRACTURES IN DOGS
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Date
2011
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COLLEGE OF VETERINARY AND ANIMAL SCIENCES-MANNUTHY,THRISSUR
Abstract
Efficacy of acrylic bone plates for the management of long bone fractures in dogs was
done in six clinical cases presented to the Surgery Units of Veterinary Hospitals, Mannuthy
and Kokkalai. Detailed clinical, radiographical, haematological and serum biochemical
analysis was performed for eight weeks post operatively at two weeks interval.
The fractures included in the study were two each of femoral, tibial and radial bones
in dogs. Three of them were transverse fractures, while other three were short oblique. Two
among them had progressed to malunion.
Fracture plan was used in each case to assess the dimensions of plate and screws
required for fixation of the respective fracture. Moulds were made with aluminium sheets and
dental grade acrylic was mixed and poured into it. After exothermic polymerisation and
cooling to room temperature, the acrylic plates were removed from the mould. Holes were
drilled into the plates as per need. Open reduction and plate fixation was done in all cases
following the standard AO/ASIF principles. All plates were placed on tension surface of bone
in buttress mode. Stainless steel cortical screws were used for the fixation of plate.
Bone healing was evaluated clinically and radiographically during the observation
period. Clinical evaluation was based on observation of symptoms of pain, functional limb
usage evaluation and degree of lameness and was recorded as per grading of Sumner -Smith.
The outcome was satisfactory in cases of tibial and radial fractures but not in femoral
fractures. Early limb usage was noticed in majority of the cases. Primary healing was
achieved where the implant was stable. There was no loosening of screws in any of the
cases. Callus formation was seen in case of slight malalignment and in excessively in
implant failure. Healing of the fractures assessed by clinical and radiological evaluation
revealed complete healing by the sixth post operative week in most of the cases.
The haematological and serum biochemical values did not show any significant
variation statistically.
The material was found biocompatible, with reasonable strength and stability and
good patient tolerence. It was found suitable for fixation of fractures in light weight animals
and pups below fifteen kilogram body weight.
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