Use of an interlocking nail-hybrid fixator construct for distal femoral deformity correction in three dogs

K. M. Wendelburg; D. D. Lewis; C. W. Sereda; D. J. Reese; J. L. Wheeler

doi:10.3415/VCOT-10-05-0076

Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Table of Contents

Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2011; 24(03): 236-245
DOI: 10.3415/VCOT-10-05-0076

Case Report

Schattauer GmbH

Use of an interlocking nail-hybrid fixator construct for distal femoral deformity correction in three dogs

K. M. Wendelburg

¹Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA

,

D. D. Lewis

¹Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA

,

C. W. Sereda

¹Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA

,

D. J. Reese

¹Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA

,

J. L. Wheeler

¹Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA

› Author Affiliations

Abstract

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Summary

Our purpose was to report the use of an inter-locking nail-hybrid external fixator construct to correct distal femoral deformities in three dogs. Radiographs, computed tomography and a three-dimensional model were used to plan the surgical procedure. A femoral osteotomy or ostectomy was performed at the level of the centre of rotation of angulation in all three dogs. Angular and rotational deformities were corrected acutely. Distraction osteo-genesis was performed to lengthen each femur postoperatively. All three dogs had additional anatomic abnormalities of the affected hindlimb complicating the correction of the distal femoral deformity. While the interlocking nail-hybrid fixator construct allowed for stable distraction of the femur, all three dogs developed complications during the postoperative convalescent period, and each had some degree of residual lameness. Lengthening the femur following acute deformity correction is problematic and additional experimental and clinical studies are warranted to decrease postoperative morbidity and improve functional results.

Keywords

Hybrid external fixator - distraction osteogenesis - interlocking nail - femur - dog

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References

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