Characterization of Radial Physeal Disturbance in Dogs: Results from a Multicentre Study

Introduction: Premature distal ulnar physeal closure is a known contributor to antebrachial deformity in dogs, however, little is known about deformity associated with premature radial physeal closure. This study describes the clinical and imaging characteristics of dogs with radial physeal disturbances using the centre of rotation of angulation (CORA) methodology.

Materials and Methods: Medical records of dogs diagnosed with premature radial physeal closure from nine hospitals were reviewed. Data were collected including patient demographics, number/location of affected physics, and any associated joint abnormalities. CT or radiographic imaging studies were assessed using CORA methodology.

Results: Eighty-three dogs and 113 limbs were assessed. The mean age at presentation was 9.4 months (range: 3.3–72) and most dogs were medium to large breeds with a suspected trauma history. Frontal plane uniapical distal radial valgus deformity was documented in 89% of dogs. Most cases had asymmetric, lateral distal radial physeal closure (57%). Elbow and/or carpal incongruity was documented in 53% and 32%, respectively. Partially compensated biapical frontal plane deformities were documented in 11% of cases and included two chondrodystrophic breeds.

Discussion/Conclusion: Radial physeal disturbance predominantly affected young, nonchondrodystrophic breeds and commonly resulted in juxta-articular uniapical valgus deformity in the frontal plane. The radiographic joint disease affecting the elbow and/or carpus was common in both uniapical and biapical deformities. These results highlight distinct characteristics from deformities associated with premature ulnar physeal closure which often result in multiplanar deformities in chondrodystrophic breeds. The retrospective design and lack of any case comparison group are limitations of this study.

Acknowledgment

None.

Publication History

Article published online:
15 July 2025