MIPO-Is there any difference in cats compared to dogs

Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis, as one of the most recent techniques for biological osteosynthesis, is gaining popularity in veterinary medicine (1-6). It has been described in several studies, involving dogs and cats. However, still limited data is available on MIPO in cats. In a recent paper describing approaches for MIPO in cats, anatomical differences between dog and cat were pointed out. In addition several modifications of the standard techniques should be considered when performing MIPO in cats.

A good knowledge of the anatomy of the cat and the anatomical landmarks for safe implant placement is mandatory to perform MIPO. Challenges can occur in Indirect reduction and plate application due to the small size of the bones in cats. Additionally it is crucial to respect the anatomical differences between cat and when performing MIPO in cats (7). The major differences are pointed out in the following paragraphs.

Approaches

Humerus

The supracondylar foramen is a major difference comparing the cat to the dog in the humerus. It is an important structure in the distal humerus of the cat because the brachial artery and the median nerve pass through it. The neurovascular structures can be freed from the supracondylar foramen, If necessary for implant positioning, after removing its medial border with bone cutting forceps (7). [...]