Treatment of bilateral medial antebrachiocarpal instability using temporary transarticular immobilisation with a locking plate

Abstract Bilateral medial instability with complete rupture of the right medial collateral ligament, radiocarpal subluxation, and medial antebrachiocarpal joint subluxation with carpal valgus and a partial rupture of the left medial collateral ligament were diagnosed on physical examination and radiographs in a non‐ambulatory, 4‐year‐old, 36 kg, golden retriever, entire, male dog. Surgical treatment comprised reconstruction of collateral ligaments and a transarticular locking plate and screws in both limbs. No complications were recorded, and transarticular plates were removed 6 and 7 weeks postoperatively. Twenty months after surgery, no lameness or joint instability was detected despite a reduction in range of motion and moderate joint degeneration of the right carpus. Temporary transarticular stabilisation with a locking plate provided adequate temporary immobilisation of the joint after carpal medial collateral ligament repair.