Malunion Fractures & Angular Deformities

Question 1

What is a malunion?

Answer 1

healed fracture in which anatomical bone alignment was not achieved or maintained, typically resulting in angular limb deformities in the appendicular skeleton

Question 2

What is considered a minor angular limb deformity?

Answer 2

<10% in any plane or <10% of the original length

• anything else is considered major and results in functional impairment

Question 3

What is a common site of malunions?

Answer 3

pelvis –> results in narrowing of pelvic canal

Question 4

What are 2 common causes of malunion fractures?

Answer 4

1. improper treatment of original fractures
2. physeal fractures in young animals

Question 5

What is the difference between varus and valgus?

Answer 5

VARUS = deviation of the segment axis toward the medial sagittal plane

VALUS = deviation of the segment axis away from the medial sagittal plane

Question 6

What is the difference between procurvatus and recurvatus?

Answer 6

PROCURVATUS = cranial bowing

RECURVATIVE = caudal bowing

(deformities of sagittal planes)

Question 7

What is the difference between pronatus and supinatus?

Answer 7

PRONATUS = internal rotation

SUPINATUS = external rotation

(deformities of axial planes)

Question 8

When is surgical treatment recommended with malunion fractures and angular limb deformities? What is recommended?

Answer 8

if deformities cause a functional problem

• corrective osteotomy and acute realignment
• ring fixator for bone lengthening and angular corrections –> stretches muscles, vessels, nerves, and skin over time