Limited open reduction and stabilization of sacroiliac fracture-luxations using fluoroscopically assisted placement of a trans-iliosacral rod in five dogs.

OBJECTIVE

To describe percutaneous fluoroscopically assisted placement of a trans-iliosacral rod to stabilize sacroiliac fracture-luxations after limited open reduction.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective clinical case series.

ANIMALS

Dogs (n=5) with sacroiliac fracture-luxations.

METHODS

Medical records and radiographs were reviewed to evaluate implant placement, fracture reduction, pelvic canal diameter ratio, maintenance of reduction, implant stability, assessment of union, and to identify any complications. Owners were contacted to obtain long-term assessment of limb function.

RESULTS

Dogs weighed between 6 and 31 kg. Trans-iliosacral rods were placed correctly traversing the sacral body. Mean (+/-SD) percent reduction of the sacroiliac joint was 92.9+/-6.6%. Pelvic canal diameter ratio did not differ significantly between time periods. With the exception of 1 dog, which died in the early postoperative period, all sacroiliac fracture-luxations healed without appreciable complications. Three dogs were sound and 1 dog had a subtle lameness at final physical and radiographic examination (mean+/-SD: 217+/-205 days). Owners assessed their dog's limb function (mean+/-SD: 355+/-205 days) as good or excellent.

CONCLUSIONS

Trans-iliosacral rods can be accurately placed using intraoperative fluoroscopy after limited open reduction of sacroiliac fracture-luxations. Trans-iliosacral rods provided bilateral secure fixation, allowed early weight-bearing and dogs consistently had good long-term clinical results.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Trans-iliosacral rods are suitable implants for the stabilization of sacroiliac fracture-luxations, particularly in dogs with bilateral fracture-luxations and/or concurrent musculoskeletal injuries.