Plate-rod fixation of a comminuted tibial diaphyseal fracture in a Juvenile Dog

Abstract

A seven-month-old male Golden Retriever weighing 28 kg was presented with non-weight-bearing lameness of the right pelvic limb following a road traffic accident. Radiographs revealed a comminuted tibial diaphyseal fracture with an associated fibular fracture. Surgical stabilisation was achieved using a plate-rod construct comprising a 2.5 mm intramedullary Steinmann pin and a 3.5 mm locking compression plate. Progressive callus formation with stable implants was observed radiographically by postoperative days 9 and 16. The dog regained good weight-bearing without complications. Plate-rod fixation provided stable biological fixation and favourable fracture healing.