Angular limb deformity

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Angular limb deformity
Synonyms	ALD
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Lameness, limb deformity, joint pain
Complications	Arthritis, lameness, joint instability
Onset	Juvenile
Duration	Chronic
Types	Valgus, varus
Causes	Genetic predisposition, trauma, nutritional imbalances
Risks	Large breed dogs, rapid growth
Diagnosis	Physical examination, radiography
Differential diagnosis	Fracture, osteochondrosis
Prevention	Balanced diet, controlled exercise
Treatment	Surgery, physical therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, depends on severity and treatment
Frequency	Common in certain breeds
Deaths	N/A

Angular limb deformity refers to a condition where the bones of the limb are not aligned properly, resulting in an abnormal angle in the limb. This condition can affect both humans and animals, and it is particularly common in dogs and horses.

Causes

Angular limb deformities can arise from a variety of causes, including:

• Genetic factors: Certain breeds of dogs and horses are predisposed to angular limb deformities due to inherited traits.
• Trauma: Injury to the growth plate (physis) in young animals can lead to premature closure of the growth plate, resulting in uneven growth and angular deformities.
• Nutritional imbalances: Poor nutrition during the growth phase can affect bone development and lead to deformities.
• Infections: Infections affecting the growth plate can also result in angular limb deformities.

Types

Angular limb deformities are classified based on the direction of the angulation:

• Valgus deformity: The limb deviates laterally, away from the midline of the body.
• Varus deformity: The limb deviates medially, towards the midline of the body.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of angular limb deformity typically involves:

• Physical examination: A thorough examination of the limb to assess the degree and direction of the deformity.
• Radiographs (X-rays): Imaging is used to evaluate the bones and growth plates, and to measure the angles of deformity.

Treatment

Treatment options for angular limb deformities depend on the severity and cause of the deformity:

• Conservative management: Mild deformities may be managed with physical therapy and monitoring.
• Surgical intervention: Severe deformities often require surgical correction. Procedures may include:

 * Osteotomy: Cutting and realigning the bone.
 * Growth plate modulation: Techniques such as transphyseal bridging to alter growth patterns.

Prognosis

The prognosis for animals with angular limb deformities varies. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can lead to good outcomes, while untreated severe deformities may result in chronic pain and mobility issues.

Related pages

• Orthopedic surgery
• Veterinary medicine
• Bone fracture