Risk factors for reluxation after toggle rod stabilization for treatment of coxofemoral luxation in 128 dogs.

Objective: Evaluate the risk factors for reluxation and outcomes for dogs with a toggle rod construct.

Study design: Retrospective case series.

Animals: One hundred twenty-eight client-owned dogs.

Methods: Medical records from 2007 to 2018 were reviewed for signalment, history, surgery, and outcome for dogs with a coxofemoral luxation repaired with a commercial toggle rod and nylon monofilament suture construct. Univariate and multiple logistics regression analysis were performed to assess risk factors associated with postoperative luxation. Primary veterinarians and owners were contacted for follow-up via telephone or electronic communication.

Results: The overall complication rate was 24.2%, and the reluxation rate was 14.8%. There was a decreased risk of reluxation when the cause was traumatic in origin (odds ratio [OR] 0.10) or when the lameness was severe at presentation (OR 0.42). Fifteen of 58 (25.9%) owners contacted completed a follow-up survey.

Conclusion: Dogs with nontraumatic, low impact luxations were at a higher risk for reluxation.

Clinical significance: Dogs of any body condition with a traumatic coxofemoral luxation are at lowest risk for reluxation.