Objective: To report use of, and outcome after, string-of-pearls (SOP™) plate and multiple cerclage wire fixation for treatment of periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) associated with total hip replacement (THR) in dogs.
Study design: Case series.
Animals: Dogs (n=6) with PFF after THR.
Methods: Clinical records (2005-2010) and radiographic evaluations of dogs that had PFF associated with THR, treated with a SOP™ plate and cerclage wires were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical and radiographic postoperative assessments were performed 4, 12, and 24 weeks postoperatively. Telephone follow-up was performed >12 months postoperatively.
Results: Three fractures occurred intraoperatively and 3 occurred postoperatively. One SOP™ failed at 2 weeks necessitating revision using 2 parallel SOP™ implants. One dog was euthanatized because of quadriceps muscle tie-down at 6 weeks. Other dogs were free of lameness with full range of motion of the stifle and hip joints at final clinical examination, and positive outcomes were maintained at >12 month telephone questionnaire. There was no evidence of implant failure and positive evidence of fracture healing at final radiographic follow-up.
Conclusions: Stabilization resulted in bone healing in 5 dogs; failure in 1 dog may be attributable to technical error. Optimal technical guidelines for use of the SOP™ in this circumstance are unknown, particularly where fracture configuration varies.
© Copyright 2011 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.