How to set a cat's femur?

How to set a cat's femur? - briefly

Setting a cat's femur involves realigning the broken bone and stabilizing it with an external fixator or internal pins and plates. This procedure should be performed by a veterinarian with experience in orthopedic surgery to ensure proper healing and prevent further complications.

How to set a cat's femur? - in detail

Setting a cat's femur requires precise and careful handling due to the delicate nature of feline anatomy. This procedure is typically performed by a veterinarian with specialized training in orthopedic surgery. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to set a cat's femur:

  1. Preoperative Planning:

    • Conduct a thorough physical examination of the cat to assess the extent and nature of the fracture.
    • Obtain radiographs (X-rays) to visualize the fracture pattern and determine the best approach for reduction and fixation.
    • Prepare the surgical area with all necessary equipment, including orthopedic implants such as pins, plates, or external fixators.

  2. Anesthesia and Surgical Site Preparation:

    • Administer general anesthesia to ensure the cat remains immobile during the procedure.
    • Clip the hair around the fracture site and cleanse it with antiseptic solution.
    • Drape the surgical area to maintain a sterile field.

  3. Surgical Approach:

    • Make an incision over the fracture site, taking care not to damage surrounding muscles, nerves, or blood vessels.
    • Gently expose the femur and assess the fracture pattern directly.

  4. Reduction of the Fracture:

    • Manipulate the bone fragments carefully to realign them into their anatomical position (reduction). This may involve gentle traction, rotation, or other maneuvers.
    • Use reduction forceps and clamps to hold the bone fragments in place temporarily while preparing for fixation.

  5. Fixation of the Fracture:

    • Intramedullary Pinning: Insert a pin into the femoral canal (medullary cavity) to provide internal support. This method is suitable for simple, transverse fractures.
      • Drill a small hole in the distal end of the femur.
      • Insert the pin through the hole and advance it up the medullary canal until it reaches the fracture site.
      • Use reduction forceps to align the bone fragments and push the pin through, securing the fragments together.
    • Plating: For more complex fractures or those involving the joint, a plate and screw system may be used.
      • Attach the plate to the femur using screws, ensuring it spans the entire length of the fracture.
      • Secure the plate with additional screws proximally and distally to stabilize the fracture site.
    • External Fixation: In cases where internal fixation is not feasible or desirable, an external fixator can be used.
      • Place pins through the skin and into the bone proximal and distal to the fracture site.
      • Attach these pins to a rigid frame that spans the fracture, providing stability from outside the body.

  6. Closure:

    • After ensuring the fracture is securely fixed, close the surgical incision with sutures or staples.
    • Apply a sterile dressing over the wound to protect it during the postoperative period.

  7. Postoperative Care:

    • Administer pain medication and antibiotics as needed.
    • Monitor the cat for signs of infection, discomfort, or malunion (abnormal healing).
    • Restrict activity to prevent disruption of the fracture site during the healing process.
    • Schedule follow-up appointments to assess the healing progress with radiographs and clinical examination.

  8. Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation:

    • As the cat recovers, introduce gentle physiotherapy exercises to maintain muscle tone and joint mobility.
    • Gradually increase activity levels as guided by your veterinarian.

Setting a cat's femur requires meticulous attention to detail and expertise in orthopedic surgery. Always consult with a licensed veterinarian for the best course of treatment tailored to the specific needs of your feline patient.