Implant removal rate and contributing factors following pancarpal arthrodesis in 42 dogs (52 cases): a multicentric retrospective study.

Background: Despite advancements in pancarpal arthrodesis implants, the postoperative complication rate remains high, and implant removal is often required. This study assessed the implant removal rate following pancarpal arthrodesis and identified its associated factors. Case records of 52 pancarpal arthrodesis procedures performed on 42 dogs at three veterinary centres between 2017 and 2023 were reviewed. The collected data included signalment, medical history, surgical techniques, and postoperative follow-up, which were categorised into perioperative, short-term, mid-term, and long-term periods. Additionally, the timing and indications for implant removal were documented. Univariable logistic regression analysis was performed to analyse the data and identify factors associated with implant removal.

Results: The implant removal rate was 36.5%. The presence of orthopaedic injuries in the contralateral limb was not associated with implant removal. The interval between diagnosis and pancarpal arthrodesis was significantly associated with implant removal (mean delay: 368.5 and 47.5 days for explantation and non-explantation cases, respectively). Carpal arthrodesis angle showed a statistically significant association with explantation (median angle: 8.58° and 11.73° for explantation and non-explantation cases, respectively). Perioperative and short-term surgical site infections, perioperative and short-term cultures and sensitivities, and the need for additional perioperative antibiotic therapy showed a statistically significant association with explantation.

Conclusions: This study confirms the high implant removal rate following pancarpal arthrodesis. Although infection may contribute to this, prompt intervention and careful attention to the carpal arthrodesis angle intraoperatively may reduce this risk.