Step ostectomy as a treatment for varus deformity of a metatarsophalangeal joint in a 4.5-month-old colt.

The research presents a case of a 4.5-month-old Quarter horse colt diagnosed with a severe varus deformity of the metatarsophalangeal joint in the right hind leg. This congenital condition, present from birth, was corrected using step ostectomy surgical technique.

Situation Overview

• The study discusses the case of a 4.5-month-old Quarter horse colt that exhibited a severe varus deformity in the right hind metatarsophalangeal joint. This condition refers to a type of deformity where the accompanying bone or joint has an inward angulation. In this case, the deformity had been present since the colt’s birth.

Presurgical Investigation

• Before choosing the appropriate course of treatment, a thorough investigation of the condition was undertaken, involving radiographic examination.
• These radiographs revealed that the deformity entailed a 16-degree deviation, with the point of rotation, or pivot point, at the distal physis (growth plate) of the 3rd metatarsal bone.

Proposed and Implemented Treatment

• Based on the radiographic analysis, it was decided that the most fitting course of action would be a surgical intervention, specifically a step ostectomy in the sagittal (vertical) plane.
• The process of step ostectomy involves the surgical removal of a portion of the bone, with the intention of realigning the bone or joint. Here, the technique was used to correct the varus deformity of the metatarsophalangeal joint.

Result of Treatment

• The research does not present specific post-surgical outcomes. However, the abstract states that the surgical intervention was successful in correcting the deformity. It can be assumed that the operation provided tangible benefits in terms of alignment, mobility, and the reduction of any associated discomfort for the colt.