Canine partial tarsal arthrodesis using laterally applied hybrid locking pancarpal arthrodesis plates: complications and outcome

Objective To describe the use of hybrid locking pancarpal arthrodesis plates (HLPCAPs) for partial tarsal arthrodesis (parTA) in dogs and document complications and clinical outcome. Animals Medical records of dogs that underwent parTA between March 2020 and April 2024 were reviewed. Dogs were included if they underwent parTA (performed with a laterally applied HLPCAP). Dogs were excluded if no follow-up could be identified, bilateral approaches were made, or an implant other than a HLPCAP was used as the primary mode of fixation. Clinical Presentation All dogs were presented for hind limb lameness, secondary to tarsal instability. Results 13 dogs (16 parTAs) were included. Intraoperative complications were reported in 2 of 16 cases. All dogs were weight-bearing at early reexamination. Postoperative biologic complications were reported in 2 of 16 cases: both minor complications. Radiographic assessment at reexamination revealed mechanical complications in 2 of 16 cases. A median bone activity score of 2 (range, 1 to 3) was reported. A total of 7 of 13 online questionnaires were completed (median follow-up time, 25 months). Owners assessed their dog’s quality of life as good, very good, or excellent. Clinical Relevance The major complication rate following parTA with HLPCAPs in this study was lower than the complication rate for parTA in previous studies with other implants. A prospective clinical trial with objective long-term assessment and comparison to a different type of implant should be performed to determine the most appropriate implant for parTA.