Objective: To report and compare two surgical approaches to the feline radial diaphysis and outline optimal techniques to maximize surgical exposure.
Study design: Ex vivo experimental comparative study.
Sample population: Left and right antebrachia of three feline cadavers.
Methods: Six feline antebrachia were collected from cadavers submitted for research purposes. Each limb was sequentially dissected for both craniomedial and craniolateral surgical approaches totalling 12 surgical approaches, or 24 when including and excluding the supinator muscle. Following each approach, photographs were taken and inserted into an image measuring software, to obtain the area of surgical exposure. The datum was then analyzed to ascertain which approach afforded the greatest exposure and whether the difference was statistically significant.
Results: The mean surface area for the craniolateral approach, including and excluding the supinator muscle, was 4.13 cm2 and 2.63 cm2, respectively. The mean surface area for the craniomedial approach, including and excluding the supinator muscle was 3.84 cm2 and 2.45 cm2, respectively. The difference observed between the two approaches was not statistically significant (p > .05).
Conclusion: Surgical exposure achieved via the craniolateral and craniomedial approaches to the feline radial diaphysis is comparable.
Clinical significance: This study validates the use of the craniolateral surgical approach to the feline radial diaphysis.
