Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Shoulder Arthrodesis Using Crescentic Osteotomy in Small-Breed Dogs

Objective This study aimed to describe the surgical techniques and clinical outcomes of shoulder arthrodesis using crescentic osteotomy in small-breed dogs. Study Design Retrospective case series. Results Ten dogs (11 shoulders) underwent shoulder arthrodesis using a crescent saw for joint preparation and locking plate fixation. The study population consisted of Toy Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers and Shiba Inus, with a mean body weight of 2.84 kg (range, 1.2–6.9 kg). Radiographic fusion was achieved in all shoulders within a mean period of 37 days (range, 21–51 days). Lameness resolved in all dogs within a mean period of 22 days. Two cases of postoperative complications occurred and were managed successfully. At a mean follow-up of 19 months, all dogs showed satisfactory limb function without the recurrence of lameness. Conclusion Shoulder arthrodesis using crescentic osteotomy was associated with consistent radiographic fusion and favourable functional outcomes in small-breed dogs and represents a potential salvage option in small-breed dogs when reconstruction is not feasible.