Single-cut osteotomy for correction of a complex multiplanar deformity of the radius in a Shetland pony foal.
Authors: Schweinsberg Lorenz P, Ehrle Anna, Schweinsberg Uwe, Meehan Lucy, Noguera Cender Andrea, Lischer Christoph J
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary A 9-week-old Shetland pony foal presented with a complex three-dimensional deformity of the right radius—combining procurvatum (forward bowing), varus angulation, and rotational deviation—which required innovative surgical planning to correct. Rather than the traditional approach of staged or multiple osteotomies, surgeons utilised CT imaging to construct a three-dimensional bone model and calculated a mathematically precise single-cut plane using the Sangeorzan method, allowing them to realign the entire deformity in one procedure and stabilise it with dual 4.5 locking compression plates. Within 15 weeks post-operatively, the varus deviation resolved completely (27° to 0°), rotational displacement improved dramatically (30° to 5°), and procurvatum reduced substantially (8° to 1°), with the foal remaining comfortable throughout recovery and achieving a functionally and cosmetically acceptable outcome by 18 months. Whilst limb-length discrepancy of 2.1 cm persisted, this technique demonstrates that complex multiplanar radial deformities—conditions traditionally challenging to correct—can be successfully managed with preoperative 3D planning and strategic single-cut osteotomy, offering farriers and veterinarians an evidence-based alternative that reduces surgical trauma and recovery time compared to conventional staged approaches. The availability of 3D modelling technology substantially advances surgical planning and prediction of outcomes in congenital or acquired equine orthopaedic deformities.
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Practical Takeaways
- •CT imaging and 3D model printing enable precise pre-operative planning for complex bone deformities, allowing surgeons to rehearse the procedure and predict outcomes
- •Single-cut osteotomy with locking compression plate fixation offers an effective alternative technique for correcting multiplanar long-bone deformities in foals
- •This approach appears suitable for referral/specialist practice; consider early presentation of affected foals for optimal surgical timing and outcomes
Key Findings
- •Single-cut osteotomy successfully corrected multiplanar radial deformity in a 9-week-old Shetland pony foal using CT-guided surgical planning and 3D modeling
- •Post-operative CT imaging at 15 weeks showed substantial improvement: procurvatum reduced from 8° to 1°, varus from 27° to 0°, and rotation from 30° to 5°
- •Functionally and cosmetically acceptable outcome achieved at 18-month follow-up with uneventful recovery