Correction of rotational deformity of the pes with external skeletal fixation in four dogs.

OBJECTIVE

To report unilateral correction and initial stabilization with external skeletal fixation (ESF) of metatarsal rotation in 4 immature Bernese Mountain Dogs.

STUDY

DESIGN

Case series.

ANIMALS: Bernese Mountain Dogs (n=4).

METHODS

The limb deformity, including degree and origin of the deformity at the level of the proximal intertarsal joint and involvement of the central tarsal bone, was characterized by clinical and radiographic assessment. Unilateral surgical correction of the most severely affected limb was performed by disrupting the ligaments and debriding the articular cartilage of the proximal intertarsal joint to allow for derotation of the deformity and arthrodesis of the proximal intertarsal joint stabilized with either circular or linear ESF.

RESULTS

Initial metatarsal rotation of the corrected limbs ranged from 60 degrees to 80 degrees of external rotation (mean, 72.5 degrees). Three limb corrections were stabilized with circular ESF and 1 with a biplanar linear ESF. Implants were removed at the time of radiographic bony union (range, 7-10 weeks; mean, 8.6 weeks). Residual deformity was minimal, ranging from 6 degrees to 15 degrees (mean, 11 degrees). Two minor complications (loosening of 1 pin, serous drainage from 1 pin) resolved with treatment.

CONCLUSION

Correction of rotational deformity of the pes with intertarsal arthrodesis yielded an excellent clinical outcome, with only a mild residual deformity.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Rotational metatarsal deformities can have a significant impact on gait, ambulation, and appearance. Correction of these deformities and stabilization with ESF and intratarsal arthrodesis can yield an excellent functional outcome, with improved gait and ambulation.