Application of hinged transarticular external skeletal fixator (HTAESF) for proximal tibial physeal fracture in a dog

An 8-month-old, 3.5 kg intact female Toy Poodle was presented for non-weight-bearing lameness on left hindlimb. In radiological testing, left proximal tibal type II Salter-Harris physeal fracture and fibular fracture were seen. Following open reduction, the fracture was stabilized with cross-pins, tension band wires, and a hinged transarticular external skeletal fixator (HTAESF). The range of the HTAESF was increased to 25o at 7 days postsurgery and to 70o at 14 days post-surgery. The HTAESF was removed 3 weeks after surgery. At 6 weeks post-surgery, the fracture was successfully healed with no complications and the patient recovered a normal gait. Seven months post-surgery, the patient had a normal gait and a normal stifle joint range of motion compared to the contralateral normal limb. This is a case in which the combined use of cross-pins, tension band wires, and HTAESF was successful for treatment of a proximal tibial physeal fracture in a dog. It is thought that these methods are beneficial for stability of fracture site and recover of joint's normal range of motion through early joint movement.