Comparison of computer assisted surgery with conventional technique for treatment of abaxial distal phalanx fractures in horses: an in vitro study.

The research involved a comparison between computer-assisted surgery (CAS) and conventional osteosynthesis (COS) techniques in the treatment of specific types of fractures (abaxial distal phalanx) in horses. The results showed a higher precision with the computer-assisted method, suggesting it as a preferable option.

Research Methodology

• The researchers used cadaveric equine limbs (32 in total) for this experimental study.
• The samples were divided into four groups. In each group, a 4.5mm cortex bone screw was inserted in lag fashion in a specific direction, using either the CAS or the COS technique.
• The CAS’s accuracy was determined by comparing the planned screw position against the actual postoperative position.
• Additionally, the preferred screw insertion direction was assessed for both CAS and COS.

Findings of the Study

• In terms of accuracy, the researchers found in four out of the six direct comparisons that screw positioning was significantly better with CAS. The precision of the screw positioning using the CAS was comparable to results from studies done in human medicine.
• The research team found no clear preference for the direction of screw insertion, with no specified direction providing significantly preferential outcomes.

Conclusions and Recommendations

• The use of computer-assisted surgery proved to yield superior precision in screw positioning for distal phalanx fractures compared to conventional osteosynthesis.
• For this type of fracture, the research suggests a preferably computer-assisted approach.
• The researchers discourage the use of the COS technique for the repair of this type of fracture due its complex anatomical relationships and lack of precision compared to CAS.