Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of 1.5-mm Locking Plate Fixation for 30 Radial and Ulnar Fractures in Dogs

Abstract Objective This study aimed to report clinical and radiographic outcomes of dogs that underwent radial and ulnar fracture repair using 1.5-mm locking plate systems. Study Design Dogs that had radial and ulnar fractures repaired using 1.5-mm locking compression plate systems at four referral hospitals were retrospectively included. Signalment, body weight, fracture aetiology, fracture location and configuration, radius diameter, plate–bone ratio, repair method, clinical and radiographic outcomes, complications, and time to last follow-up were recorded. Results Thirty fractures in 28 dogs were included. Median body weight was 2.4 kg (range 1.3–5.5 kg). The mean length of the proximal segment relative to the total length of the radius was 67% (range 33–93%). The mean diameter of the radius at its isthmus was 4.9 mm (range 3.1–6.1 mm). The mean plate–bone ratio was 64% (range 48–89%). Radiographic union was documented in 29/30 fractures at a median of 8 weeks postoperatively. Of the cases with long-term follow-up available, 21/24 had a full function and 3/24 had an acceptable function. Five complications occurred, including infection (n = 2), screw migration (n = 1), bandage sores (n = 1), and peri-plate fracture (n = 1). Conclusion In this population of miniature and toy-breed dogs, 1.5-mm locking plates provided effective fixation for radial and ulnar fractures. Despite complications in 5/30 fractures, radial union occurred in 29/30, and no dog had an unacceptable function at the last follow-up.