title: Experiences using the Fixin locking plate system for the stabilization of appendicular fractures in dogs: a clinical and radiographic retrospective assessment.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To retrospectively evaluate the stabilization of appendicular fractures in dogs using the Fixin locking plate system.
  
  
  METHODS
  Medical records and radiographs of dogs with fractures stabilized with the Fixin system in the period from May 2005 to September 2010 were reviewed. For each patient, data pertaining to signalment, the nature of the fracture, implants used, and evidence of fracture healing were recorded. The outcome and complications were determined from clinical and radiographic follow-up examinations. Limb function was evaluated between 40 days and 90 days postoperatively. Owners of pets with complications were contacted by phone for long-term follow-up.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Eighty-two fractures in seventy-five dogs met the inclusion criteria for the study. Radiographic re-examinations were carried out between eight days to two years (median 60 days) following surgery. Seventy-three out of 82 fractures (89%) reached union without complications. Major complications were seen in six dogs (7%). Limb function was graded as 'normal' in 73/75 (97%) dogs and 'mild lameness' in 2/75 (3%) cases.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Despite a modest complication rate, the Fixin locking bone plating system appears to be an acceptable choice of implant for the stabilization of appendicular fractures in dogs.
authors.affiliation: Clinica Veterinaria Milano Sud, Peschiera Borromeo, Milano, Italy.
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Nicetto
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Petazzoni
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Urizzi
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Isola
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001860:Bone Plates / Q000662:veterinary*; D001863:Bone Screws / Q000662:veterinary; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D004285:Dogs; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D005121:Extremities / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies