Hinged circular fixator construct for correction of congenital metatarsal deformity in a foal

A five-week-old American Quarter Horse colt was presented for evaluation of a left hindlimb deformity and lameness. Radiographs of the left hindlimb revealed a varus deformity with recurvatum originating in the mid-diaphysis of the third metatarsal bone. Surgical correction was undertaken by performing an osteotomy through the centre of rotation of angulation located within the mid-diaphysis of the third metatarsal bone, and a four-ring hinged circular external fixator construct was applied. Distraction of the osteotomy site was performed over an 11 day period. Notable complications included failure of a fixation pin, infection of the surgical site, and temporary laxity of the supporting tendons and ligaments of the contralateral metatarsophalangeal joint. The fixator was maintained until there was sufficient bone formation to allow frame removal, 152 days after the initial surgery. Use of a hinged circular construct allowed for partial correction of the deformity with resultant lengthening and resolution of the lameness in this colt.