Stifle Distraction using the SK™ Linear Distraction/Compression Device

Components used with a Canine Stifle Distraction

This tip-and-trick demonstrates a new idea for an old component and was submitted by a surgical practice in California.

The IMEX™ SK™ linear distractor/compressor body is normally used to assist fracture reduction, lengthen short limbs, or to apply compression to non-union fractures and is a modular element of the SK™ external skeletal fixation system. Simply put, the compression/distraction body is a turn buckle device that utilizes standard right-hand hybrid rods in one end and special left-hand hybrid rods in the other end. Once assembled, the unit accepts SK™ clamps and INTERFACE® or DuraFace® external fixation pins (Figure 1).

Required Components:

(2) SK™ ESF Clamps, Small (PN# 400.000)
(1) SK™ Linear Distraction Body (PN# 407.999)
(2) External Fixation Pins (based on patient size)
(1) Left-hand Hybrid Rod, Small (PN# 407.050L)
(1) Right-hand Hybrid Rod, Small (PN# 407.050)
(1) 8mm Combination Wrench (PN# 408.801)
(1) 8mm Angled Socket Wrench (PN# 408.802)

This tip demonstrates a previously undescribed use for this device – that of a stifle distractor. Figure 2 demonstrates opening of the medial stifle compartment after distraction has been applied, enhancing visualization of the medial compartment. Simple 8mm wrenches are the only instruments required and are common to both the small SK™ ESF clamp and the wrench flats on the distractor body. Other stifle distractors are commercially available, but are expensive and do not find double duty as an external fixation component and are not modular with SK™ clamps and wrenches.

IMEX™ appreciates receiving this tip-and-trick and believes other veterinarians will utilize this method to simplify and improve surgical repair of cruciate ligament and/or meniscal injuries.