Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Correcting foreleg bone deformities in 13 dogs with hinged external
By Kwan, Toni W et al.·Published in Veterinary surgery : VS·2014·Department of Clinical Sciences·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Correction of biapical radial deformities by use of bi-level hinged circular external fixation and distraction osteogenesis in 13 dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 13 dogs with severe forelimb deformities were treated using a special external fixator to correct issues with their radius bones, which were causing lameness and buckling. After an average treatment period of about 80 days, the dogs showed significant improvement, with no buckling observed post-surgery and lameness scores improving for all dogs. This method effectively corrected the bone deformities and helped the dogs regain better function in their legs.
People also search for: dog forelimb deformity treatment · dog lameness improvement · external fixator for dog leg problems
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To describe clinical, radiographic, and computed tomographic (CT) assessment of biapical deformities of the radius in dogs and evaluate the effectiveness of their management by use of bilevel hinged circular external fixation frames. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, non-randomized cohort study. ANIMALS: Dogs (N = 26: 13 with 14 limbs operated, 13 controls). METHODS: CT scans of the forelimbs were performed and CT-based polymer replicas prepared. Rotation within the elbow joint, varus of the proximal portion of the radius, radial torsion, valgus of the distal portion of the radius, procurvatum, and rotation within the carpal joint were measured on radiographs, on polymer replicas, and on CT scans. Bilevel hinged circular external fixation frames were assembled on polymer replicas and identical frames were placed on dogs. Torsion was corrected acutely and angulation was corrected progressively. Functional outcome was assessed subjectively. RESULTS: Buckling was present preoperatively in operated limbs. Mean (± SD) varus of the proximal portion of the radius was 36 ± 8°, valgus of the distal portion of the radius was 32 ± 5°, external radial torsion was 35 ± 6°, procurvatum was 41 ± 10°, and medial translation was 44 ± 11 mm. Treatment duration was 80 ± 24 days. Buckling was not observed after surgery. Lameness scores improved in all dogs (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The forelimbs of dogs with severe biapical radial deformities buckle and have increased radial head rotation and radial torsion. Biapical radial deformities can be managed with proximal and distal radial osteotomies and bilevel hinged circular external fixation.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24410998/