Objective
To report use of, and outcome after, string-of-pearls (SOPTM) plate and multiple cerclage wire fixation for treatment of periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) associated with total hip replacement (THR) in dogs.
Study design
Case series.
Animals
Dogs(n=6)withPFFafterTHR.
Methods
Clinical records (2005–2010) and radiographic evaluations of dogs that had PFF associated with THR, treated with a SOPTM plate and cerclage wires were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical and radiographic postoperative assess- ments were performed 4, 12, and 24 weeks postoperatively. Telephone follow-up was performed 4 12 months postoperatively.
Results
Three fractures occurred intraoperatively and 3 occurred postopera- tively. One SOPTM failed at 2 weeks necessitating revision using 2 parallel SOPTM implants. One dog was euthanatized because of quadriceps muscle tie-down at 6 weeks. Other dogs were free of lameness with full range of motion of the stifle and hip joints at final clinical examination, and positive outcomes were main- tained at 4 12 month telephone questionnaire. There was no evidence of implant failure and positive evidence of fracture healing at final radiographic follow-up.
Conclusion
Stabilization resulted in bone healing in 5 dogs; failure in 1 dog may be attributable to technical error. Optimal technical guidelines for use of the SOPTM in this circumstance are unknown, particularly where fracture configuration varies.
