Open reduction of sacral fractures using transarticular implants at the articular facets of L7-S1: 8 consecutive canine patients (1995-1999).
OBJECTIVE
To describe and evaluate facet stabilization as an aid for open reduction and fixation of sacral fractures.


METHODS
A clinical case series.


METHODS
Eight consecutive client-owned dogs with sacral fractures.


METHODS
A combination of a standard lateral approach to the ilium and a dorsal approach to the articular facets of L7-S1 was performed. The articular facets were reduced and stabilized with a Kirschner wire or a combination of a Kirschner wire and a cortical screw. Primary stabilization of the sacrum was then accomplished using a cortical screw inserted from the lateral aspect of the ilium, through the sacral fracture into the body of the sacrum. Accuracy of reduction, position of the implants, percent screw depth/sacral width, pelvic canal diameter ratio, and complications were assessed using radiographs and physical examination.


RESULTS
Mean sacral fracture reduction was 91% immediately after surgery, and was 87% when measured at follow-up examinations. Mean screw depth/sacral width was 66%. Mean pelvic canal diameter ratio was 1.12 postoperatively and 1.03 at the 4- to 6-week reevaluation. Six of the 8 dogs were using the leg well 10 to 12 days after surgery; none had clinically detectable neurologic deficits. The long-term (mean, 2.7 years) outcome for these dogs was good (normal to grade I lameness).


CONCLUSIONS
Fixation of the L7-S1 facet joints facilitates repair of sacral fractures.
Paré
B
B
Veterinary Specialty Clinic, Riverwoods, IL, USA.
Gendreau
C L
CL
Robbins
M A
MA
D000818:Animals; D002358:Cartilage, Articular / Q000601:surgery; D004285:Dogs / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000662:veterinary*; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D019736:Prostheses and Implants / Q000662:veterinary*; D011859:Radiography; D012447:Sacrum / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery*