Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2012; 25(06): 518-523
DOI: 10.3415/VCOT-11-11-0161
Clinical Communication
Schattauer GmbH

Correction of severe congenital flexural carpal deformities with semicircular external skeletal fixation system in calves

C. Yardimci
1   Ondokuz Mayis University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Surgery, Samsun, Turkey
,
A. Ozak
1   Ondokuz Mayis University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Surgery, Samsun, Turkey
,
O. Nisbet
1   Ondokuz Mayis University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Surgery, Samsun, Turkey
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Publikationsverlauf

Received 16. November 2011

Accepted 11. Juni 2012

Publikationsdatum:
19. Dezember 2017 (online)

Summary

Objective: To present a novel technique for the treatment of severe congenital flexural forelimb deformities in calves.

Methods: Thirteen calves of different breeds and sex with severe congenital flexural forelimb deformities were enrolled in the study. A semicircular external skeletal fixation system composed of 6-hole, 45° carbon-fiber arches, 6 mm threaded rods, half-pin fixation bolts, 6 mm hexagonal nuts, and negative profile end-threaded half-pins were used for pancarpal arthrodesis. Complications, time to first use of the limb, fixator removal time, preoperative and postoperative sagittal plane angles of the fused joints, and functional outcomes were evaluated clinically and radiographically. Final assessments were determined according to functional and cosmetic outcomes.

Results: All of the surgically treated carpal joints obtained fusion. Seven of the calves started to use the limb immediately after recovering from anesthesia. In the other six calves, the time ranged from one to two days. Time to fixator removal ranged from 25 to 36 days (mean 30 days). Final outcome was excellent in 11 cases, and good in two cases.

Clinical significance: The technique was found to be a useful method for the treatment of severe congenital flexural forelimb deformities in calves. The cost of the operation is negligible compared to the economic value of beef cattle.

 
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