Distraction osteogenesis for treatment of premature physeal closure and shortening of the third and fourth metatarsals of a dog.

A 4-month-old Siberian husky was presented for a history of lameness of the left hind limb. Physical and radiographic examination revealed a 1-cm shortening of metatarsals III and IV, with subsequent hyperextension of the digits on the left hind paw. A circular external skeletal fixator was used to accomplish distraction osteogenesis in both metatarsals over a period of 15 days. Treatment was successful in restoring appropriate length of the metatarsals and in resolution of the lameness. At 6 and 12 months after surgery, the owner reported that the dog was ambulating normally and had no complications related to the surgery.