Metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis in three dogs

Metatarsophalangeal (MTP) arthrodesis was done in each of three dogs with end-stage degenerative joint disease resulting from trauma and osteomyelitis (n = 2) and immune-mediated disease (n = 1). In two cases, MTP arthrodesis proved to be a useful method of eliminating pain and salvaging limb function. In one case, concurrent injuries and obesity prevented full return to function. Arthrodesis was accomplished with autogenous cancellous bone grafts and bone plates (n = 2) and with transarticular K-wires (n = 1). External coaptation was a necessary adjunct to internal fixation in all cases.