Achilles Brace System (ABS)
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
The Caerus Achilles Brace System (ABS) provides
an off-the-shelf solution to Achilles injury
stabilization. The modular system allows for a
customizable fit through the use of Boa® Closure Systems, adjustable hubhinges, and Caerus proprietary thermoformable plastic technology. The
thermoplastic design allows the system to be spot heated to modify the
shape and fit.
This innovative mix of technology provides prophylactic support for injuries
to the Achilles. Caerus ABS is also used as a cast alternative with accessibility after Achilles surgery or as
a rehabilitative device after surgery. Caerus protective padding provides comfort and cushion and can
be removed, washed and replaced to maintain proper hygiene. Caerus Bracing and Fracture
Management Brace Systems provide an instant cost-effective solution without long lead times and
repeated casting.
Achilles Brace Indications
Provide prophylactic and rehabilitative support for injuries to the tarsal joint and ligament, such as
Achilles tendon surgery. Provides extremities fracture management, with the added advantage of
sophisticated acute rehabilitative device post-surgery or injury. Can also be used as a sophisticated
wound cover with access points after surgery.
Warnings and Precautions
It is up to the veterinary care provider and pet owner to determine the pet’s ability to tolerate the
application of the Caerus ABS. While pets have demonstrated good tolerance utilizing the ABS, it may be
appropriate to apply a cone to the pet to reduce interference.
The ABS wear schedule is dictated by the veterinary care provider based on indications and diagnosis.
The veterinary care provider and pet owner should together watch for potential over tightening of Boa
dynamic tensioning system on the brace.
If areas of irritation appear, the pet owner should immediately contact the veterinary care provider and
arrange for adjustment.
Application
A majority of the time the Caerus Achilles Brace System will
readily fit the patient. For optimal results, pre-warm the ABS in
the Caerus Slim Line Heater. (Figure 1)
This step provides a more customized fit to the specific patient.
A key functional and aesthetic design element of the Caerus
ABS is the exclusive dynamic tensioning system comprised of
the Boa® closure system, incorporated with Hook and Loop
attachment Tabs. (Figure 2)
Opening the Boa Hook and Loop Attachments
Lift up on Boa® reel to unlock system. (Figure 3)
Lift up on either side Hook Tab to evenly extend lace out from the
reel. (Figure 4)
Do this for both the upper (tibial) section and
lower (tarsal) sections (Figure 5)
The opposite side Hook Tab may also be detached to ease
brace application. (Figure 6)
Closing the Boa Hook and Loop Attachments
Reapply the Hook Tabs over their respective Loop areas. (Figure 7)
The inner edge of the Hook tab, with Boa lace guides should lay over
the aluminum Upright. (Figure 8)
Push down on Boa reel until it clicks. (Figure 9)
Turn reel clockwise to take up slack in the lace. (Figure 10)
Tighten until desired snug, but not too tight fit, is achieved.
NOTE: The system is not secure unless Boa reel is closed and slack has
been removed from lace.
Hub Hinge System
The Caerus ABS features a proprietary 3-way hub hinge system. This
innovative design provides an anatomical fit that accommodates to
specific joint movements resulting in a more comfortable fit, while
offering needed support. Range of Motion (ROM) Stops limit joint ROM
following surgery or injury. (Figure 11)
The Uprights allow Axial Rotation which accommodates for tarsal
joint migration during movement. (Figure 12)
Valgus/Varus Deviation facilitates correct clamshell
positioning during fitting. (Figure 13)
Attaching Hardware
The Hub Hinge Uprights are assembled pre-attached to the ABS. In the event they are removed, in the
case of greater length adjustment, follow instructions below.
Hub Hinge Uprights should be oriented as shown. (Figure 14)
To attach the Upright, insert the double anchor post on the inside of
the thermoplastic clamshell. (Figure 15)
After locating the upright in the desired position, insert and finger
tighten the two (2) Phillips dome head screws into the double
anchor post. Tighten with a Phillips style screw driver (not
provided). (Figure 16)
Adjust Length
Hub Hinge Uprights are easily adjusted vertically at all attachment points to accommodate variations in
limb lengths.
To adjust, loosen the Phillips screw slightly and slide upright up or
down along channel to desired position. (Figure 17)
Re-tighten. Repeat on opposite side, ensuring both sides are
equal in position and length.
Adjust Range of Motion (ROM)
The Hub Hinges offer full and incremental ROM adjustment in
varying degrees, including complete lock-out in any position. To
adjust ROM, loosen and remove the Phillips screws located in
the Hub. (Figure 18)
Determine desired ROM. Re insert screws to provide the
intended protected ROM. (Figure 19)
If full ROM is desired, the set screws may be removed entirely.
(Figure 20)
To set in lockout or full extension, position the hinge at the desired angle.
Insert screws at points closest to the pivot to prevent the hinge from
moving from this position. (Figure 21)
Achilles Brace System Application
To apply, fully open both sections of the brace, by
releasing the Boa Reels and lifting the Hook Tabs
away from the Loop material on the clamshell.
(Figure 22)
If length adjustment is required, loosen the Hub Hinge
Upright screws. (Figure 23)
Apply the opened clamshell sections of the brace to the
posterior aspect of the limb. The Caerus logo faces BACK.
(Figure 24)
Align each section to the desired location, paying particular attention that
the Hub Hinge pivots are aligned with the tarsal joint axis. If loosened retighten the Phillips dome head screws. (Figure 25)
Close the brace, by placing the front (cranial) shells to fit within the
back (caudal) clamshells. Re-apply the Hook Tabs to their
respective Loop areas on the clamshells. Close each section of the
brace, by tightening the Boa reels, working from lower (distal) to
upper (proximal) sections. (Figure 26)
NOTE: Since the Cranial clamshells are completely detachable,
specific length adjustments, upward or downward, are available to
further provide an optimal fit.
Adjust the ROM as condition indicates.
Spot Heating
The brace may be spot molded to provide a better fit and
eliminate areas of irritation. (Figure 27)
Use a hair dryer on medium heat and high speed to heat the
area. Keep the heat source four to six inches away from the
brace. The material will soften in approximately two minutes.
Be careful not to overheat.
The Caerus Slim Line Heater may also be used, as described
earlier. See Figure 1. (Figure 28)
Once pliable, bend the material to the desired position and hold
until the material hardens. Reapply the brace. The brace may be
reheated and remolded as needed.
The Brace thermoplastic and foam may also be trimmed to fit
uneven contours.
Care and Cleaning
If brace and/or padding becomes wet or soiled, remove the foam padding to hand wash with mild soap
and air dry. Padding may be replaced with Caerus Replacement Padding. Exposing brace to
temperatures over 130°F may cause the brace to lose its shape.
Check Screws Weekly
At least weekly, check and if necessary, re-tighten the Phillips
screws on both the Hub Hinge and Uprights. (Figure 29)
Protocol and Wearing Recommendations
The following recommendations are general guidelines only. Each protocol should be tailored to the
individual needs of the patient and be based on injury severity and healing progress. The patient should
be closely monitored for healing progress, advancements in mobility and weight bearing, as well as brace
fit and adjustment needs during the healing process. Protocols should be reevaluated and modified as
needed by veterinary care provider.
Post-Op
For use in the event of surgery, the brace should be worn for 24/7 during the first 4 to 8 weeks, unless
otherwise recommended. If the surgery site has stabilized, the brace may be removed for short periods
of time, approximately 1
to 2 hours, only while the dog is under full supervision and full control to prevent re-injury. After the 8th
week the brace should be worn during times of activity to prevent re-injury and may be worn for an
additional 2 to 3 months or as needed.
Conservative Care
For use in the event of acute ligament tear or to prevent re-injury. The brace should be worn 24/7 until
the dog will bear normal weight on the injured leg. Longer term stabilization may be required, and the
brace should be used during times of activity to prevent re-injury or 24/7 if necessary.
Dog Types, Weight Ranges and Tibia Measurement Ranges
• Extra Small fits 10 to 25 lbs., such as Shiatsu and Pug - 2.75”- 4.0”
• Small fits 25 to 40 lbs., such as Whippet and Shetland Sheepdog - 3.75”- 5.5”
• Medium – 40 to 65 lbs. - Boxer, Bull Dog, Cocker Spaniel, Australian Sheppard, Greyhound – 5.0”- 7.0”
• Large – 65 to 90 lbs. - Labrador, German Sheppard, Doberman, Husky, Border Collie – 6.0”- 8.0”
• Extra Large – 90+ lbs. - Great Dane, St. Bernard, Weirmaraner, Bernese Mountain Dog – 7.0”- 11.0”
US and International Patents Pending
Manufactured by
Caerus Corp
1251 Red Fox Road
Arden Hills, MN 55112
651-440-9345
www.caeruscorp.com
© 2016 Caerus Corp IFU ABS 12 2016
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