Assessment of Canine Cranial Radial Cortex Torsion Profile using Computed Tomography

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to use computed tomography (CT) multiplanar reconstructions (MPRs) of canine thoracic limbs to evaluate and provide baseline data regarding the degree and variation in torsion along the length of the cranial radial cortex in a population of normal dogs.

Materials and Methods: CT images of paired thoracic limbs from canine cadavers free of orthopedic disorders were evaluated. Specimens were separated into two groups based on total body weight (toy breed dogs versus large breed dogs). Using CT-MPR images, the torsion profile of the cranial radial surface was measured. Canine cadavers of two different weight groups were evaluated and compared. Measurement landmarks were normalized to radial length to allow intergroup comparisons.

Results: The overall mean (± SD) degree of torsion was 5.82 ± 6.92 degrees of external rotation. A significant difference in torsion profile was not identified between right and left limbs of the same dog. Comparison of the overall mean degree of torsion was significant between toy and large breed dogs.

Discussion/Conclusion: This study is an endeavour to provide baseline data with reference to the torsion profile of the cranial surface of the canine radius. These quantitative measurements could serve as a general guideline for the magnitude and location of torsional contouring to apply to bone plates utilized on radius fractures. These results may also lend themselves to the development of a pre-contoured radius plate that would help streamline minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for radius fractures.

Acknowledgement: There was no proprietary interest or funding provided for this project.