Treatment of acetabular fractures in cats and dogs with locking veterinary acetabular plates

This study aimed to assess the postoperative outcomes of using locking acetabular plates and locking reconstruction plates for the stabilization of acetabular fractures in cats and dogs. The study analyzed intraoperative and postoperative data from feline and canine patients diagnosed with acetabular fractures and treated at Kırıkkale University Veterinary Faculty Research and Practice Hospital. Variables evaluated included fracture location, degree of displacement, severity of lameness, coexisting orthopedic conditions, neurologic deficits, interval between injury and surgery, type of implant utilized, quality of fracture reduction, and postoperative complications. A total of 19 acetabular fractures were repaired: 9 fractures in 8 dogs and 10 fractures in 10 cats. Locking implants used included acetabular plates (16/19 cases) and reconstruction plates (3/19 cases). As a result of the study, it was observed that acetabular plates provide successful results, especially in fractures located in the central region; however, in fractures located in the caudal regions, reduction may be difficult due to the limited bone stock where the plate can be placed. In cases involving concurrent fractures of the ilium or ischium fracture, more easly shaped implants, such as reconstruction plates, were found to be more advantageous. These findings underscore the importance of tailoring implant selection to the specific anatomical and clinical characteristics of each fracture to optimize surgical outcomes.