Abstract
Objectives
The aim of this study was to determine if internal fixation of the anconeus combined with a proximal ulnar osteotomy was more likely to result in fusion of the anconeus to the ulna compared with a proximal ulnar osteotomy alone.
Methods
A total of 12 orthopaedic referral clinics reviewed their clinical databases for cases of ununited anconeal process. Demographic and clinical parameters were collected along with radiographic follow-up at a minimum of four weeks. Cases treated with proximal ulnar osteotomy alone were compared with those treated with proximal ulnar osteotomy + internal fixation. Both groups were compared for background and disease variables. We tested for an association between treatment method and whether radiographic anconeal union had occurred.
Results
A total of 47 elbows (44 dogs) were identified. Of these, 28 cases (average age 7 center dot 6 months) were treated with proximal ulnar osteotomy (of which eight were stabilised with an intramedullary pin) alone. Nineteen cases (average age 7 center dot 1 months) were treated with proximal ulnar osteotomy + internal fixation. The two groups were not significantly different in age (P=0 center dot 638, Mann-Whitney U test). Fourteen of 28 cases with proximal ulnar osteotomy alone displayed anconeal union at follow-up compared with 16 of 19 cases of proximal ulnar osteotomy + internal fixation, and this difference was statistically significant (P=0 center dot 029, Fisher's exact test).
Clinical Significance
These data suggest that use of a lag screw to stabilise and compress the ununited anconeal process in addition to proximal ulnar osteotomy produces a better radiographic outcome. It is argued that radiographic union of the anconeus is likely to be associated with better long-term clinical outcome but further studies are required to confirm this.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 545-548 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Journal of Small Animal Practice |
Volume | 50 |
Issue number | 10 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Oct 2009 |
Keywords
- DEVELOPMENTAL ELBOW DISEASES
- PROXIMAL ULNAR OSTEOTOMY
- LAG-SCREW FIXATION
- CANINE ELBOW
- DOG
- PATHOGENESIS
- INCONGRUITY
- DYSPLASIA
- JOINT