Veterinary Surgery August 2026 – Ortho: Feline Pelvic Fixation & Correcting Tibial Torsion

In this episode of the Simini Small Animal Surgery Podcast, we explore the orthopedic research from the August 2026 issue (Issue 6) of Veterinary Surgery, where two studies focus on restoring normal biomechanics in challenging orthopedic cases, from feline corpus ilium fractures to canine patellar luxation associated with abnormal tibial torsion. One study compares a modified clamp rod internal fixation system with conventional locking plates for feline ilial fractures, while the second examines proximal tibial detorsional osteotomy as a way to correct the underlying rotational deformity responsible for patellar maltracking.In this episode:✅ Saylak et al. conducted a prospective clinical study of 36 cats with corpus ilium fractures, comparing conventional locking plates with a modified clamp rod internal fixation (MCRIF) system. All fractures ultimately healed, but the MCRIF group demonstrated better radiographic healing at 45 days, less pelvic canal narrowing, and no screw loosening, compared with a 22.2% screw-loosening rate in the locking plate group. The adjustable clamp design allowed screws to be placed at a precise 90-degree angle to the cortex, maximizing screw purchase in the narrow, relatively spongy feline ilium. The rod also functioned as a rigid bridge, maintaining anatomic alignment without drawing the fragments inward toward a flat plate, potentially reducing the risk of clinically significant pelvic canal narrowing. The discussion also highlights the importance of surgical site management at closure in complex orthopedic procedures involving greater tissue manipulation and implanted hardware. The episode examines how reinforcing the lavage protocol may help address bacterial contamination that mechanical fixation alone cannot control. ✅ Petazzoni et al. reported outcomes following proximal tibial detorsional osteotomy (PTDO) in dogs with patellar luxation associated with abnormal tibial torsion. Across 53 stifles, the procedure restored normal patellar tracking in 96% of cases, with 96% also achieving full or acceptable limb function. Rather than simply repositioning the tibial tuberosity, PTDO addresses the underlying rotational deformity of the proximal tibia. The technique is mechanically demanding because of persistent traction from the patellar tendon, making rigid fixation and precise plate contouring essential. Although the overall complication rate was 33%, major complications occurred in only 11% of cases and were predominantly implant-related, emphasizing that successful correction depends heavily on meticulous mechanical execution. Together, these studies reinforce a fundamental principle of small animal orthopedics: successful fixation is not simply about holding bone together. It is about identifying and correcting the mechanical problem that caused instability or malalignment in the first place. 🎓 Journal Articles DiscussedSaylak  et al. — Locked plate versus modified clamp-rod internal fixation for feline corpus ilium fractures: A comparative clinical studyPetazzoni et al. — Clinical outcomes and complications after proximal tibial detorsional osteotomy for patellar luxation in dogs: A multicenter retrospective study📚 From the August 2026 Issue (Issue 6) of Veterinary Surgery 🎁 Want to learn more about Simini Protect Lavage or request a sample?Learn More: www.simini.comRequest a Sample: https://www.simini.com/evaluation-kit