Conservative management of sacroiliac luxation fracture in cats: medium- to long-term functional outcome

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this study was to determine the functional medium- to long-term outcome for cats with a conservatively managed sacroiliac luxation fracture (SILF). Methods Inclusion criteria were conservative management of SILF in cats with no other concurrent fractures of the pelvic weightbearing axis and availability of radiographs for review. Radiographic measurements of percentage displacement of the sacroiliac joint and the sacral index were obtained and fracture configuration was assessed. A specific owner questionnaire was completed a minimum of 6 months after the injury. The questionnaire assessed the ability of the cat to perform normal activities, the time to recovery, any behavioural changes and any requirement for long-term analgesia. Results Seventeen cats met the inclusion criteria, and 13 owners completed the questionnaire. Twelve cats had an excellent outcome, with no difficulty performing normal activities. One cat had a good outcome, with slight or occasional difficulty performing normal activities. Conclusions and relevance Our study provides evidence to support the current guidelines of conservative management of SILF. The inherent bias of case selection in our population implies that this treatment cannot be recommended for all cases of SILF.