Complications and outcomes of traumatic stifle luxation in 18 cats treated by temporary double cerclage wires.

Objective: To report the clinical findings, surgical procedure, complications, and outcomes associated with a novel surgical technique using double cerclage wires to address traumatic stifle luxation in cats.

Animals: 18 cats (19 stifles).

Clinical presentation: Cats treated for traumatic stifle injury between 2015 and 2023 with a double femoral-tibial cerclage wire placed in the sagittal plane in a quasi-isometric position and a follow-up at a minimum of 8 weeks postoperatively were included. Data collection included signalment, intraoperative findings of ligament and meniscal injuries, and short-term postoperative complications. Long-term follow-up data were obtained via physical examination or telephone interviews with the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index.

Results: The mean age and body weight at presentation were 7 years and 4.7 kg, respectively. Cranial cruciate ligament rupture was present in all cats. Caudal cruciate ligament rupture was complete in 16 of 19 stifles and partial in 1 of 19. The medial collateral ligament was injured in 11 of 19 stifles and the lateral in 9 of 19 stifles. The medial meniscus was damaged in 6 of 19 stifles and the lateral in 5 of 19 stifles. All cats wore a modified Robert-Jones bandage for 14 days postoperatively. Short-term complications included superficial wound infection (2 of 19) and moderate joint swelling (13 of 19). Implants were systematically removed starting at 8 weeks postoperatively. Cerclage wire rupture was observed in 7 stifles on radiographic rechecks. The outcome was considered excellent in 15 cats and good in 3, based on owner assessment and clinical examination.

Clinical relevance: The use of a double cerclage wire to treat traumatic stifle luxation in cats resulted in successful long-term functional recovery.