Successful use of a dynamic apparatus for quadriceps contracture treatment in a dog and two cats

Abstract

Two skeletally immature cats and one dog with a history of femoral fractures presented with hyperextension and reduced range of motion of the stifle joint. Based on clinical examination, all three patients were diagnosed with quadriceps contracture and surgical treatment was recommended. Following surgical release of the soft tissue adhesions, a dynamic apparatus was placed. The device consisted of two loops of suture acting as anchor points at the ischiatic tuberosity and the calcaneus tuberosity connected by a rubber band. The apparatus forced the stifle joint into full flexion when the patients were resting while allowing some degree of extension. All three cases were successfully treated, with only minor complications reported. This system represents a simple, comfortable and cost‐effective mechanism for the treatment of quadriceps contractures.