MSU Technologies

Surgical system for minimally invasive repair of sacro-iliac luxations/fractures in dogs and cats

Executive Summary

Injuries to the pelvises of cats and dogs often result in damage to the Sacro-iliac or SI joint. Traditionally, SI joint damage is repaired using an invasive operation, increasing morbidity for the patient as well as high levels of radiation exposure for the surgical team. Recently, there has been increased interest in the utilization of minimally invasive surgical procedures. MSU researchers have developed a set of instruments designed to facilitate a minimally invasive reduction and fixation of sacro-iliac luxations/fractures (SIL/F) in small animals. This technology greatly improves efficiency and precision in minimally invasive SI surgeries while drastically reducing surgeon exposure to x-rays during the procedure.

Description of Technology

MSU researchers have developed a novel surgical device and kit useful for implementing a minimally invasive approach to the repair of sacro-iliac (SI) joint damage in cats and dogs. This system utilizes two posable arms for both anchoring the patient in place and holding a targeting device to deliver the screw to the pelvis. Preliminary data indicates that use of this comprehensive system speeds up the SI surgery, from 60-90 minutes to approximately 15 minutes. Thanks to the system’s novel aiming device, the number of x-ray images needed to achieve the necessary drilling precision to repair the SI joint is reduced significantly, preventing surgeons from excessive exposure to radiation.

Key Benefits

Complete surgical set
Faster- Significant decrease in operating room time
Recovery- Patient recovery is improved with less chance for morbidity, infection, pain
Improves radiation safety- Benefits of less exposure accrue to both the patient and surgical team.
Better targeting- The system includes a novel targeting device which promotes better placement of screws, even by less experienced surgeons.

Applications