Abstract

Background:
Antebrachial deformity is characterized by multiplanar malalignment of the radius and ulna, making accurate surgical correction challenging in dogs. Various patient-specific surgical guides have recently been introduced in veterinary medicine to improve surgical precision. However, their clinical application is often limited by high cost and the requirement for specialized engineering support. This study describes the use of a simple, cost-effective, and clinic-fabricated patient-specific osteotomy guide to correct antebrachial deformities in a dog.

Case Description:
A 10-month-old neutered female American Bully presented with bilateral antebrachial deformities, with a more severe right-sided deformity. Computed tomography revealed procurvatum, valgus, and torsional deformities of the right radius accompanied by ulnar shortening. As both limbs were affected, correction angles were determined through visual assessment of three-dimensional (3D) reconstructed images with reference to the angles of clinically normal dogs. A single osteotomy guide was designed according to the planned correction and configured in a press-fit manner to allow stable and reproducible positioning by conforming to the anatomical contours of the distal radius. Corrective osteotomy was performed after several simulations using a 3D-printed bone model. The postoperative recovery was uneventful, and no guide-related complications were observed during bone healing. The differences between the planned and achieved correction angles were within 4°. The dog’s bow-legged stance was resolved after surgery. No significant postoperative complications were identified over a 3-year follow-up period. The dog maintained satisfactory forelimb function.

Conclusion:
This case suggests that this press-fit-type guide can be designed with relative simplicity while enhancing surgical accuracy with minimal surgical exposure. It may be a viable option for the precise correction of complex antebrachial deformities in dogs.

Key words: Antebrachial deformity; Corrective osteotomy; Dog; Patient-specific guide; 3D printing.