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.
