Angular limb deformities in foals. Flashcards
Define angular limb deformity
Deviation from the long axis of the limb in the frontal plane
- observed when foal viewed from in front or behind
How are angular limb deformities described
1) Direction of deviation – valgus or varus
2) Centre of deviation – fetlock / carpus / tarsus etc
3) Severity – angle of deviation
Define valgus
deviates out
define varus
deviates in
List 3 congenital causes of angular limb deformities
periarticular laxity
incomplete ossification of cuboidal bones
uterine malpositioning
List 2 acquired causes of angular limb deformities
asymmetrical growth across physis
- physitis
- direct trauma
Describe how to examine angular limb deformity
static- stand in front/ behind, assess severity
Dynamic- following the mare
manipulation- peri-articular laxity
How can radiography be used to evaluate angular limb deformities
Origin of the deviation
Severity – measure angle
Incomplete ossification
If angular limb deformity caused by incomplete ossification describe how to treat
box rest
If angular limb deformity caused by Peri-articular laxity (but normal ossification) describe how to treat
box rest with controlled exercise
describe how to treat acquired valgus limb deformity
Trim lateral hoof wall
Extend medial hoof wall
describe how to treat acquired varus limb deformity
Trim medial hoof wall
Extend lateral hoof wall
when do we used surgical treatment to correct angular limb deformity
Severe deformity
Conservative treatment failed
When approaching age of physeal growth cessation
persistent ulna
describe surgical treatment of angular limb deformities
Inhibit growth on long side of limb- done via Transphyseal bridge
OR
Periosteal strip- growth acceleration
when do we remove implants used to treat angular limb deformities
Remove implant when almost straight (85-95% straight)
- straightening will continue a bit once implants removed
