This case report describes distal tibiofibular arthrodesis as a technique for achieving
increased confluent bone support for the placement of oversized arthroplasty components
for talocrural arthroplasty in an 18-month-old Labrador Retriever with talocrural
osteoarthritis secondary to talar osteochondrosis. Computed tomography assessment
for suitability for BioMedtrix canine ankle replacement surgery revealed the tibia
to be undersized relative to the tibial component. Distal tibiofibular arthrodesis
was performed to increase lateral bone support to permit placement of an otherwise
oversized prosthesis. Subjective assessment of outcome with owner Liverpool Osteoarthritis
in Dogs questionnaire to 6 months postoperatively as well as radiological assessment
to 4 months postoperatively documented significant improvement in lameness in the
operated limb with no complications. Distal tibiofibular arthrodesis is a means by
which to achieve increased bone support prior to BioMedtrix canine total ankle replacement
surgery. The surgical technique described herein permitted placement of an oversized
talocrural prosthesis in this patient with good clinical function. This technique
may permit use of this arthroplasty system in otherwise undersized patients until
such a time that smaller implants are available from the manufacturer.
Keywords
tibiofibular arthrodesis - canine ankle replacement
