Transcutaneous tibial implants: a surgical procedure for restoring ambulation after amputation of the distal aspect of the tibia in a dog.
OBJECTIVE
To report surgical planning, technique, and long-term outcome of custom transcutaneous tibial implants used to restore ambulation after bilateral pelvic limb amputation in a dog.


METHODS
Case report.


METHODS
A 4-year-old, 25.5 kg, female spayed, Siberian Husky.


METHODS
Computed tomographic scans of the pelvic limbs were used to build sterolithographic models of the remaining tibia after bilateral amputation of the distal aspect of the tibiae. The sterolithographic models facilitated fabrication of implants that would replace the missing distal segments of the tibiae. Custom implants were surgically placed in both limbs.


RESULTS
Assisted ambulation was restored immediately postoperatively and unassisted locomotion occurred at 7 days. At 14 months, aseptic loosening of the right implant occurred, it was removed and a 2nd transcutaneous implant was fabricated and implanted. At 26 months after initial surgery and 17 months after revision of the right implant, function is restored at a walk, trot, and run.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on over a 2-year follow-up, transcutaneous tibial implants allowed for restoration of locomotion.


CONCLUSIONS
Transcutaneous tibial implants offer a potentially viable treatment option for restoring ambulation after amputation of the distal aspect of the tibiae in the dog.
Drygas
Kevin A
KA
Alameda East Animal Hospital, Denver, CO, USA. kevind33@aol.com
Taylor
Robert
R
Sidebotham
Christopher G
CG
Hugate
Ronald R
RR
McAlexander
Heather
H
D000671:Amputation, Surgical / Q000662:veterinary*; D000818:Animals; D004285:Dogs / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D019736:Prostheses and Implants / Q000662:veterinary*; D013977:Tibia / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D016474:Weight-Bearing