"How to" Manage Angular Limb Deformities: Surgical Options and Timing

Angular limb deformities are defined as medial or lateral deviations of the limb in a frontal plane. Careful clinical assessment is required to define the deformity. This should include examination whilst standing square and with the limbs positioned straight beneath the body and when walking. Visual assessment should be made from directly in front of the joint being assessed to avoid misinterpretation as a result of concurrent rotational deformity. Radiographic examination is also critical in assessment and, in addition, enables quantitative evaluation of the pivot point and pivot point angle.

When assessing a foal with an angular limb deformity, the clinician must consider in combination the age of the foal, remaining growth potential at the site of angular deformity, cause and severity of deformity. Only after considering these factors can a suitable treatment plan be formulated.

Congenital deformities

Periarticular laxity
This is a common cause of angular limb deformity in neonates, requiring no intervention other than limiting exercise. Dramatic improvement is usually seen within the first few weeks of life. [...]