Cast-Type, 3D-Printed, Patient-Specific Surgical Guide for Antebrachial Deformity Correction and Circular External Skeletal Fixator Placement.

A 15-month-old, female, spayed, 15 kg, mixed-breed dog was presented for evaluation of a left antebrachial, juxta-articular limb deformity. Computed tomography (CT) revealed 49 degrees of valgus, 45.1 degrees procurvatum and 9.2 degrees external torsion of the left antebrachium. The deformities of the left antebrachium were virtually corrected to align with the normal, contralateral limb using computer-aided design software and a cast-type surgical guide was constructed to fit the skin surface and guide placement of circular external fixator (CESF) wires. The cast-type guide was successfully placed intraoperatively and utilized for wire placement, then the guide was removed. A left radial closing wedge ostectomy and left ulnar ostectomy were then performed, and the CESF was assembled using the preplaced wires. Postoperative radiographs confirmed satisfactory implant placement and antebrachial alignment. No complications were encountered in the postoperative period and radiographic union of the ostectomy sites was evident 8 weeks postoperatively. Repeated forelimb CT and 3D reconstruction post-CESF removal demonstrated left antebrachial valgus, procurvatum and external rotation were all within 2 degrees of virtually planned angles. All wire placement was deemed clinically acceptable, however, mild deviation in planned and observed wire placement location and angle were measured compared with preoperative planning. Our case demonstrates the feasibility of a unique 3D printed, patient-specific surgical guide, utilizing patient soft tissue topography for guidance of external skeletal fixation.

Acknowledgment

None.

Publication History

Article published online:
15 July 2025