Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
8th INTERNATIONAL HEALTH SCIENCE AND LIFE CONGRESS, Burdur, Türkiye, 16 - 19 Nisan 2025, ss.529, (Özet Bildiri)
Background: External fixation is a crucial treatment method, particularly in open, infected, or
comminuted fractures, due to its advantages. Its success depends on biomechanical stability and
preserving soft tissues around the fracture site through a minimally invasive approach. Aim:
This study aimed to determine the selection criteria for the type of external fixation in different
fracture types in cats and to determine the optimal treatment approach. Methods: This study
was conducted on cats with long bone fractures admitted to Ondokuz Mayıs University, Faculty
of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Surgery. The selection of external fixation type was
based on the fractured bone, fracture type and localization, patient age, and health condition.
Cats treated with external fixation were evaluated on a case basis, and healing processes and
complications were retrospectively analyzed, with clinical outcomes recorded. Results: The
effectiveness of external fixation in various long bone fractures (1 humerus, 1 femur, 2 radius-
ulna, 5 tibia, and 3 tarsal fractures) was evaluated. Acrylic and aluminum systems were chosen
based on the patient and owner’s preferences. Most fractures were comminuted and distal, with
successful outcomes. Pin tract discharge occurred in all cases, pin loosening in 3 cases, and 1
case experienced a recurrent fracture postoperatively.
Discussion and Conclusion: The choice of the type of external fixation is directly related to
the fractured bone, the type of fracture, the fracture's localization and the patient's clinical
condition. Although external fixation is commonly preferred for long bone fractures, it has been
observed that additional factors, such as the patient's temperament and the owner's commitment
to postoperative care, play a critical role in the success of treatment. External fixation is a
powerful treatment option in open fracture management and a minimally invasive approach,
providing early mobilization while adhering to the principles of biological osteosynthesis.