Repair of an Isolated Traumatic Cranial Luxation of the Radial Head Using a TightRope System in a Cat

Abstract

AbstractA 4.4 kg, a 6-year-old Domestic Shorthair male neutered outdoor cat was diagnosed with an isolated traumatic cranial luxation of the left radial head. Surgical stabilization was achieved using a mini TightRope system (Arthrex Vet Systems, Naples, Florida, United States) to hold the radial head to the ulna without attempting to reconstruct the annular ligament. A range of motion within the normal range was achieved after reduction. At 7-week follow-up after surgery, the cat was walking without lameness; at follow-up by telephone 3 years postoperatively, the owner described the overall quality of life as excellent with good mobility in everyday activities such as jumping, running, and playing. Many publications in veterinary medicine detail congenital radial head luxation, Monteggia lesions, or complete elbow luxation, but traumatic radial head luxation is barely cited as the occurrence is rare. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a feline isolated traumatic radial head luxation managed with this technique.