[Correction of angular deformities caused by premature closure of the distal ulnar epiphyseal plate in dogs]

Surgical correction of angular deformities caused by premature closure of the distal ulnar growth plate in dogs. Correction of angular deformities in 14 cases of premature closure of the distal ulnar growth plate is described. Angular deformities were most frequently seen in large breeds during the most active phase of growth at 3-5 months of age. Preoperative axial deviations measured on radius were from 7 to 38 degrees in valgus and 0 to 35 degrees in antecurvation compared with the contralateral leg. According to the kind of treatment, the dogs were divided into two groups: In group I which consisted of cases with sufficient remaining growth potential of the radius, segmental ostectomy of ulna with insertion of an autologous fat graft in the ostectomy diastasis was performed to allow spontaneous correction by asymmetrical epiphyseal growth. In group II reconstructive osteotomy and stable, internal fixation with a plate was accomplished. The cosmetic result was judged as excellent in 10 cases, good in 3 and less favourable in 1. Postoperative follow up time was in average 33 months. On control 43% of the dogs showed no lameness, 57% were slightly lame after exercise or rest. None of the cases turned out to be permanently lame at the end of the follow up investigation.