A retrospective study of Monteggia fractures in 8 dogs and 1 cat.

Monteggia fractures (MFs) are proximal ulnar fractures with concurrent dislocation of the radial head. This retrospective study aims to report the clinical findings and discuss the treatments and outcomes in MFs cases of 9 cases. Previous medical records of the animals were reviewed for history, clinical features, radiographic findings and choice of treatment. Treatment follow-up was evaluated over the telephone by discussion with the owners. Six animals included in the study were presented 2 days after the initial trauma. Five dogs were presented after common road traffic accidents and two after unknown traumas. All dogs had type I MFs, while the cat had a type III MF. Radiographical findings showed that six animals had extra-articular ulnar fractures, while three animals had intra-articular ulnar fractures. All animals were treated with open reduction of the ulna and internal fixation surgical methods. Six ulnar fractures were stabilized with intramedullary pin(s) with cerclage wire. The clinical outcome was assessed by the owners as full function in 3 dogs, acceptable function in 2 dogs and unacceptable function in 2 dogs with intraarticular ulnar fractures. The cat case was rated as full function. One dog died from a pulmonary fat embolism. The findings presented here provide some support that cerclage wire placement could be a satisfactory method for annular ligament reconstruction as a simple and economical treatment option. Also, to the authors' knowledge, this is the third report of MFs with intraarticular ulnar fractures. In this series, comminuted, intraarticular fractures were related to major postoperative complications.

Comparison of allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells therapeutic potentials in rabbits' cartilage defects: Μacroscopic and histological outcomes.

Mesenchymal stem cells are safe and effective for treating joint injuries. However, the most suitable cell source remains controversial. This randomized controlled, double-blind study aimed to evaluate the potentials of rabbit allogeneic bone marrow- (BMSCs), adipose- (ASCs) and synovial membrane- (SDSCs) derived stem cells encapsulated in fibrin glue (FG) in vivo. The therapeutic properties of fibrin glue in critical-sized osteochondral defects (ODs) were also investigated. A 3 × 3 mm-sized OD was created in the femoral patellar groove on both knees of New Zealand rabbits, except from the left knees of the control group in which the OD was 2 × 3mm. The rabbits were randomly divided into four groups (right/left knee): 3 × 3 mm / 2 × 3 mm-sized OD control group, FG/FG with ASCs group, FG/FG with BMSCs group, FG/FG with SDSCs group. The International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) and the O'Driscoll scales were used to evaluate tissue characteristics after 12 weeks. FG promoted the production of reparative tissue with superior macroscopic features. Allogeneic MSCs combined with FG improved the macroscopic and histological scores more than the FG groups. The tissue in the SDSCs group was macroscopically and histologically better than the ASCs and BMSCs groups. The ICRS score differed among the SDSCs and the ASCs groups, while the empty critical-sized ODs were filled with inferior tissue compared to smaller ones. The preclinical feasibility of stem cells for OD regeneration in rabbits and the osteochondrogenic superiority of SDSCs was demonstrated. Additional tests and extended studies are required to reassure the long-term safety of these findings.

Conservative management for complete loss of a metatarsal pad in a dog.

A three-year-old intact, male Siberian Husky was presented for complete loss of its left metatarsal pad. The wound was managed as an open wound and left to be closed by second intention healing. Conservative management consisted of regular lavage and bandage changes along with oral antibiotic administration and exercise restriction. Thirty days after referral conservative management was discontinued, as the wound was closed with minimal scar tissue formation and the dog was allowed to take walks wearing a protective boot for another month. The animal was then allowed to return to its previous activity. Four years of follow-up did not reveal any signs of lameness.