Complications and outcomes of traumatic stifle luxation in 18 cats treated by temporary double cerclage wires

Objective To report the clinical findings, surgical procedure, complications, and outcomes associated with a novel surgical technique using double cerclage wires to address traumatic stifle luxation in cats. Animals 18 cats (19 stifles). Clinical Presentation Cats treated for traumatic stifle injury between 2015 and 2023 with a double femoral-tibial cerclage wire placed in the sagittal plane in a quasi-isometric position and a follow-up at a minimum of 8 weeks postoperatively were included. Data collection included signalment, intraoperative findings of ligament and meniscal injuries, and short-term postoperative complications. Long-term follow-up data were obtained via physical examination or telephone interviews with the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index. Results The mean age and body weight at presentation were 7 years and 4.7 kg, respectively. Cranial cruciate ligament rupture was present in all cats. Caudal cruciate ligament rupture was complete in 16 of 19 stifles and partial in 1 of 19. The medial collateral ligament was injured in 11 of 19 stifles and the lateral in 9 of 19 stifles. The medial meniscus was damaged in 6 of 19 stifles and the lateral in 5 of 19 stifles. All cats wore a modified Robert-Jones bandage for 14 days postoperatively. Short-term complications included superficial wound infection (2 of 19) and moderate joint swelling (13 of 19). Implants were systematically removed starting at 8 weeks postoperatively. Cerclage wire rupture was observed in 7 stifles on radiographic rechecks. The outcome was considered excellent in 15 cats and good in 3, based on owner assessment and clinical examination. Clinical Relevance The use of a double cerclage wire to treat traumatic stifle luxation in cats resulted in successful long-term functional recovery.