Pelvic fractures in the dog and cat: a classification system and review of 556 cases

Abstract

Summary A system for the classification of pelvic fractures in small animals is described. The system is based on a review of 556 cases and adapted from the AO/ASIF classification system for fractures of long bones in humans and small animals. A coding method was created to encompass the multiple sites in pelvic fractures, and associate fracture location and morphology with complexity of therapy and prognosis. The classification is based on criteria derived from standard radiographs and well-defined in a glossary of terms. Illustrations of fracture configurations given by the codes facilitate the designation of codes to cases. This article introduces the classification system and reports the findings when applied to 556 cases of pelvic fractures.