Repair of Monteggia fractures using an Arthrex Tightrope system and ulnar plating.

Objective: To report the outcome after treatment of Monteggia fractures (MF) using a novel surgical technique.
Study Design: Clinical reports.
Methods: One dog and 1 cat were treated for MF by use of a Tightrope suture, toggle, and button implant. In both patients the fracture/luxations were reduced using an open technique and the tightrope was placed using a cannulated drill system and guide wire from cranial to caudal. Cases were retrospectively reviewed at 1, 5, and 8 weeks (cat) and at 4 weeks and 4 months (dog) for complications and outcome. Outcomes were measured by subjective assessment of range of motion comparing affected to unaffected limbs, and lameness scoring and by client description of function.
Results: Both animals returned to normal function with range of motion close to that of the unaffected limb. No complications were recognized.
Conclusions: Tightrope repair of MF resulted in excellent clinical results with no complications.
(© Copyright 2011 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)