Growth plate abnormalities in the elbow - distal ulnar physeal closure

Question 1

Cause of distal ulnar physeal closure?

Answer 1

1) Trauma
2) Retained cartilage cores (giant breeds)
3) Inability of distal ulnar physis to grow appropriate speed (dysostosis echondralis) - chondrodystrophic breeds

Question 2

Result of distal ulnar physeal closure?

Answer 2

Angular limb deformity characterized by carpal valgus, radius curvus (procurvatum), rotational abnormalities, and in some humeroulnar subluxation and antebrachipcarpal joint subluxation

Question 3

Age of presentation?

Answer 3

5-10 months, lameness, angular deformity

Question 4

Treatment?

Answer 4

restoring joint congruity
adressing angular deformity

Treatment of choice depends on age

Question 5

Treatment in young animals?

Answer 5

Distal ulnar ostectomy - fat graft to prevent premature healing

Question 6

Treatment in older animals?

Answer 6

Distal ulnar ostectomy + proximal ulnar osteotomy