Objective: To report the efficacy of two approaches of modified type II transarticular
external skeletal fixator (TESF) without joint arthrodesis for treatment of talocrural
instability/luxation (TCI) in dogs and to rate short-term outcomes and complications after
its use.
Study design: Retrospective study.
Sample population: Ten dogs.
Methods: Medical records of All dogs suffered from TCI and have been treated using TESF
type II between January 2012 to December 2021 were reviewed. Information was collected
including signalment, lameness score, type of TCI, accompanying injuries. The surgical
management included TESF alone (n=2) and TESF with internal repair (n=8), both didn't
involve debridement of the articular cartilage. The post-operative follow-up assessment
included lameness score, ankylosis and complications.
Results: All dogs had satisfactory joint stability at the time of frame removal. All dogs
exhibited minor complications, 4 dogs had major complications and persistent lameness.
Females and older animals showed high degrees of joint ankylosis compared with males
and younger animals.
Conclusion: Modified-TESF type II (with internal repair) technique would be better than
arthrodesis. it is considered a joint saving procedure with high success rate regarding
restoration of function, lameness score, ankylosis and short term postoperative follow up
complications, Modified type II TESF with internal repair showed significant outcomes
especially in heavy breeds dogs, preserving the articular cartilage reduces the overall
complication rate and preserved the joint function.
Clinical significance: This study supports the use of temporary modified type II TESF with
internal repair and without tarsal arthrodesis for management of TCI in dogs as an
alternative to tarsal arthrodesis.