Correction of Tibial fracture in a Cat by intramedullary pinning at Teaching and Training Pet Hospital and Research Center, Purbachal, Dhaka.

Abstract

This report outlines a surgical strategy for treating tibial bone fractures in a cat. The case was documented during an internship at the Teaching and Training Pet Hospital and Research Center (TTPHRC), Purbachal, Dhaka. A 1-year-old local breed male cat, named Romeo, weighing 4.5 kg, was presented to the clinic with leg-carrying lameness following a fall from the fourth floor, diagnosed as high-rise syndrome. Physical examination revealed that the cat was alert and active, but discomfort and crepitation were noted on palpation of the right tibia. Radiographic examination confirmed a complete tibial fracture. The initial treatment with plaster bandaging failed to stabilize the fracture, prompting a decision to perform pinning for fracture correction. A retrograde intramedullary pinning technique was employed using a conventional surgical approach. Preoperative sedation was achieved with Xylazine (2 mg/kg, IM), and general anesthesia was maintained with Ketamine (10 mg/kg, IV). Muscle relaxation was induced with Diazepam (0.2 mg/kg, IV). Fluid therapy was administered with normal saline (20 ml/kg, IV). Postoperative care included Cefixime (11 mg/kg, PO), Meloxicam (0.3 mg/kg, SC), and Cetirizine (1 mg/kg, PO), along with a protective bandage. On the seventh day post-surgery, mild weight-bearing was observed, and the sutures were removed on day ten. Two weeks after the surgery, Romeo was observed to be alert, playful, and walking with a normal gait. This study demonstrates that intramedullary pinning is an effective and successful method for treating tibial fractures in cats.