Traumatic elbow luxation and surgical treatment in a cat

Traumatic elbow joint luxation is rarely seen in cats. Traffic accidents are the most common traumatic cause of the elbow luxation. Affected animals are unable to bear weight on the affected limb, and the elbow is carried in a flexed position. The forelimb is abducted and externally rotated. Palpation of the elbow reveals swallowing, pain and crepitation. Most animals resist elbow extension and flexion. For a definite diagnosis, orthogonal radiographs should be taken. Most luxated elbows can be reduced by closed manipulation if treated within the first few days after injury. Open reduction of a luxated elbow is indicated when it is impossible to achieve closed reduction or if the joint and muscle contractures occurs. One year old intact male Angora cat was subjected in this study. It has a history of lameness, occurred after a traffic accident. Lateral elbow luxation was diagnosed due to clinical and radiologic examination. Luxation was treated with open reduction, lateral approach to the joint was chosen. Reduction was achieved with a curved elevator. Postoperative radiography was performed and all structures of the joint were seen in normal anatomic position. Splinted bandage was applied as the elbow joint in extension position for 3 weeks postoperatively. After removal of the bandage, patient’s clinical complaints was completely solved. When the closed reduction is unsuccessful for the treatment of traumatic elbow luxation or in chronic cases, open reduction is found satisfactory