Novel Techniques to Correct Canine Angular Limb Deformities
The University of Missouri Veterinary Orthopaedics Group is developing new techniques to quantify and optimally correct angular limb deformities in dogs. Some of these techniques utilize a system created by Dr. Dror Paley called the Center of Rotation of Angulation methodology.
Recently we have begun examining the benefits of Computed Tomography to quantify angular limb deformities. The CT images are also being used to generate three-dimensional models of the canine bones using a technology called stereolithography with the ProtoMed Company. With this company, the COL will be conducting a study examining the utility of stereolithigraphy for the correction of severe multi-planar antebrachial angular limb deformities in dogs. It is our hope that through these and other investigations, we can better understand canine angular limb deformities and optimize their correction with minimal patient morbidity.
- A three dimensional reconstruction of the radius and ulna of a yound dog diagnosed with a severe multi-planar angular limb deformity.
- A life-size stereolothographic model of the same radius and ulna imaged with CT in the previous figure. This model will be used to complete a rehearsal surgery to learn the optimal technique for the correction of the deformity.