Correction of a severe torsional malunion of the metacarpus in a calf by transverse osteotomy, transfixation pinning and casting

Abstract

A four-month-old Holstein heifer was presented for evaluation of an angular limb deviation. Upon initial presentation, the heifer was not clinically lame. An external rotation of 90 degrees of the fetlock was observed in the left forelimb. Radiographs identified a healing closed spiral fracture of the third and fourth metacarpal bones, with a 90 degrees external torsion. A mid-metacarpal bone transverse osteotomy was performed after insertion of transcortical pins in the distal and proximal part of the third and fourth metacarpal bones and in the distal radius. The reduction was performed in order to align both fetlock and carpal joints and a fiberglass cast was applied to complete the external fixation. A satisfactory outcome was associated with the treatment.