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

To describe the surgical correction of a multiplanar deformity of the radius in a pony using a single-cut osteotomy.

Case report.

A 9-week-old male Shetland pony foal with a bodyweight of 47 kg.

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).

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.

The single-cut osteotomy resulted in the successful correction of a multiplanar equine long-bone deformity with a favorable outcome in a Shetland pony.

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.