Treatment of coxofemoral luxations by double-sided modified toggle pin technique and assessment of early results in cats: 17 cases

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate coxofemoral joint luxation in cats clinically and radiographically, to treat with double-sided modified toggle pin technique and to share the early-term outcomes. The study material consisted cases of 17 cats which were brought with complaints of hind limb lameness and diagnosed with coxofemoral luxation by radiography and orthopaedic examination. Radiograms revealed that the luxations of all cases either at right or left sides were formed craniodorsally. Fractures of femur (n=2), sacroiliac luxation (n=1), and os pubis and os ischii fractures (n=1) accompanied coxofemoral luxation in some cats. Toggle pins of different sizes were prepared using Kirschner wires and they were sterilized a day before surgery. Approaching the hip joint craniolaterally, luxated coxofemoral joint was allowed to set to its anatomic position, using an apparatus prepared with toggle pin and nylon sutures (USP: 0). Double-sided modified toggle pin technique was performed for the treatment. Cats, which only had luxations were able to use their legs without any problems one day after surgery; although, this time was prolonged in cases having additional orthopaedic problems. However, postoperative clinical and radiographical findings were satisfactory in all cases. As a result, double-sided modified toggle pin technique was concluded to be an appropriate method for surgical treatment of coxofemoral luxations in cats, with its satisfactory joint stabilization, quick gain of extremity functions and its compatibility with body tissues.