CLINICAL APPLICATION OF INTRAOPERATIVE SKELETAL TRACTION IN THE DOG

The purpose of this clinical study was to evaluate the technical feasibility of a method for pre-operative and intra-operative traction for reduction of fractures of the appendicular skeleton. Traction was used in 24 diaphyseal fractures in 21 dogs. For each dog, the data pertaining to signalment, limb circumference, fracture type, interval between fracture and surgery, and the traction modalities were recorded. Postoperative alignment was judged excellent in 21 fractures and good in three fractures. Fractures were stabilized using external skeletal fixation (n=10), plates (n=11) or locked nails (n=3), depending on the fracture type. The use of the technique was straightforward and easily applied in a surgical setting.