Retrospective evaluation of postoperative joint immobilization using a temporary calcaneotibial screw for medial or lateral tarsocrural joint instability in dogs.

Objective: To evaluate the use of a temporary calcaneotibial screw (CTS) to immobilize medial or lateral tarsocrural joint instability (TCI) in dogs.

Study design: Retrospective study.

Animals: Twelve dogs (including five active working farm dogs) with TCI.

Methods: Medical records (January 2015-June 2023) were retrospectively reviewed for cases of TCI managed surgically including temporary joint immobilization using a CTS and external coaptation. Clinical data consisted of medical records and an online survey completed by the owner.

Results: Surgical techniques to address TCI included primary ligamentous repair, synthetic ligament reconstruction, or malleolar fracture repair. Immobilization with a CTS was employed for 6-8 weeks postoperatively. The online survey was completed for 10 dogs. All dogs exhibited good-to-excellent functional outcomes at the follow-up (median, 31 months; range, 4-66). All working farm dogs (5) were able to return to normal or substantial levels of their work. Four distinct complications were reported in three dogs including one CTS breakage and three bandage-related soft-tissue injuries.

Conclusion: This retrospective study represents the first report of employing a temporary CTS for TCI in dogs.

Clinical significance: A temporary CTS was effective in immobilizing the tarsocrural joint for dogs with TCI and the postoperative complication rate in this study was relatively low. A CTS screw and external coaptation is a viable alternative to previously reported methods of tarsocrural joint stabilization.