CALCANEOQUARTAL ARTHRODESIS IN THE DOG

The efficacy of calcaneoquartal arthrodesis was evaluated retrospectiv ely in 36 dogs (39 joints) with instability of the proximal intertarsa l joint. Instability was caused by rupture of the plantar ligament in 27 dogs (75 per cent) while in the remaining nine dogs it was complica ted by fractures or luxations of other tarsal bones. The average perio d between the time of injury and referral was 10 weeks. Thirteen dogs had received prior treatment. Arthrodesis was achieved in 33 of the 39 joints (85 per cent) following the initial surgery, while a further f our joints were subsequently successfully treated, giving an overall s uccess rate of 95 per cent. Sixteen limbs (41 per cent) developed comp lications; these complications were seen more frequently in dogs refer red with a history of previous unsuccessful cast or surgical managemen t. After an average follow-up period of 37 months, 76 per cent of the dogs were reported to be sound.