A Retrospective Study on The Evaluation of Hind Limb Bone Fractures in Cats

Abstract

As a result of many traumatic factors such as traffic accidents, falls from height, gunshot wounds and animal fights with each other, orthopedic and soft tissue damage, especially fractures, occur in the musculoskeletal system. Among the fractures within these lesions, the incidence of hind limb long bone fractures is higher than other bones. While the incidence of femur fractures among other fractures in cats is 20-26%, tibia fractures constitute a significant proportion of approximately 20% of other fractures. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the distribution, etiology, treatment, and treatment results of fractures in cats with hind limb bone fractures (n=92). In addition to the use of intramedullary nails and plates, external fixators are also used for the treatment of hind limb bone fractures. Despite the advantages and disadvantages of each technique, most of the time no problems are observed during the application of these techniques and in the postoperative period. A functional recovery was observed in all cats at postoperative follow-up. As a result, it can be said that the method to be used in hind limb bone fractures in cats varies according to the surgeon's preference, experience, and existing orthopedic material inventory. However, anatomical locking plates have the advantages of not using postoperative bandages and allowing the limb to be used early.