● Introduction
Shoulder luxation is a common issue in veterinary sports medicine, primarily caused by trauma or genetic predisposition. The most frequent clinical presentation is medial luxation. However, in some cases, postoperative instability may lead to secondary lateral luxation, complicating treatment.
This case study explores the application and effectiveness of ETButton in treating a complex sequential medial and lateral shoulder luxation in a Samoyed named Yuki.
● Basic Information
· Name: Yuki
· Breed: Samoyed
· Sex: Female
· Age: 8 years
· Medical History:
July 2024: Medial shoulder luxation of the right forelimb due to a fall.
August 4, 2024: Underwent medial ligament repair at another clinic, but the outcome was unsatisfactory.
Postoperative Day 3: Developed lateral shoulder luxation, indicating persistent joint instability.
▲ Preoperative Gait
▲ Preoperative CT Scan
● Treatment Plan
Surgical Approach:
Bilateral fixation of the shoulder joint using ETButton.
▲ ETButton
ETButton employs ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) sutures, a highly durable material commonly used for artificial ligaments, offering:
· High wear resistance
· High tensile strength
· Low friction
· Excellent biocompatibility
Postoperative Care:
· Cold therapy
· Muscle massage
· Physiotherapy and controlled exercise
▼ Postoperative Imaging:
▲ Digital radiography (DR) at 3.5 months postoperative
● Postoperative Recovery
▼ 5 Days Postoperative:
▼ 1.5 Months Postoperative:
▼ 5 Months Postoperative:
● Discussion & Conclusion
Current treatments for shoulder luxation include:
· Conservative management
· Biceps tendon transposition
· Arthrodesis in severe cases
However, ETButton provides a minimally invasive and biomechanically stable solution, filling a gap in ligament reconstruction. Its dual fixation capability enhances joint stabilization, making it a promising treatment option for complex shoulder luxation cases.
Acknowledgment
Special thanks to Dr. Wang Qi for sharing this surgical case!
