Single-cut osteotomy for correction of a complex multiplanar deformity of the radius in a Shetland pony foal.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To describe the surgical correction of a multiplanar deformity of the radius in a pony using a single-cut osteotomy. STUDY DESIGN: Case report. ANIMALS A 9-week-old male Shetland pony foal with a bodyweight of 47 kg. METHODS: The foal presented with a complex multiplanar deformity of the right radius. A 3-dimensional model of the bone was created based on computed tomography (CT) imaging. To correct the deformity, the cutting plane for a single-cut osteotomy was calculated following the mathematical approach described by Sangeorzan et al. After osteotomy, the bone was realigned and stabilized with two 4.5 locking compression plates (LCPs). RESULTS: Recovery from surgery was uneventful, and the foal remained comfortable. A CT exam 15 weeks after surgery revealed that diaphyseal deformities improved substantially in procurvatum (from 8° to 1°), varus (from 27° to 0°), and rotation (30° to 5°). The operated radius was 2.1 cm shorter than the left. Eighteen-month follow up confirmed a functionally and cosmetically acceptable outcome. CONCLUSION: The single-cut osteotomy resulted in the successful correction of a multiplanar equine long-bone deformity with a favorable outcome in a Shetland pony. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Single-cut osteotomy is an alternative surgical technique for the correction of complex diaphyseal long-bone equine deformities. Computed tomography data and the possibility of printing 3D models provides a significant advantage for rehearsing the procedure and for evaluating the correction that was achieved.