Technical Errors in Small Animal Orthopaedic Surgery

Successful fracture repair depends on a variety of factors-the primary issues being proper implant selection based on fracture configuration, appropriate techniques, adequate sterility and owner compliance. External fixation systems fail primarily due to pin loosening and infection. Internal fixations such as plates fail due to use of improper size, inadequate screws or improper techniques. Pins and wires primarily fail due to using inappropriate or inadequate number of implants. Malunion, non-union, delayed union or fracture disease result due to failures.