Angular Limb Deformities (ALDs)

Angular Limb Deformities (ALDs) in Dogs

In dogs with angular limb deformities, their legs appear crooked or twisted. The three most common causes of ALDs are:

Damage to growth plates while a dog is still growing. Growth plates are areas of cartilage at the ends of the long bones of the legs; this cartilage eventually hardens into bone but can be injured while it’s still soft and flexible, especially in puppies.
Some breeds like Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, Corgis and Shih Tzus (referred to as chondrodysplastic breeds) have short limbs due to abnormal cartilage development and are genetically predisposed to ALDs;
If a bone fracture heals but the bone fragments aren’t aligned properly (what’s called a malunion), it can lead to a bone that’s bent, twisted, rotated or shortened.

What does treatment involve?

The goal of ALD correction is to straighten the limb, improve loading (the distribution of weight and force through the legs during movement) and preserve joint function. At Fusion, our approach includes a thorough physical exam, X-rays and, for severe cases, a CT scan for precise treatment planning using computer software, 3D printing, and virtual surgical planning. ALDs are typically stabilized with bone plates and screws, although external skeletal fixators (ESFs) may be used in some cases. This is a surgical technique in which pins are inserted into bone and connected to an external frame to stabilize fractures and facilitate bone healing.

Post-operative care

After surgery, your dog will need 8 to 12 weeks of rest, avoiding running, jumping, or playing. Inside the house, they can move around as long as they don’t jump on or off furniture or race up and down stairs; stair usage should be slow and on a leash.

Outside, keep them on a leash for bathroom breaks, even in a fenced yard. When unsupervised, they should be confined to a crate, small room, or sectioned-off area to prevent overactivity, which can delay healing. At-home exercises may also be prescribed.

Staples or sutures will be checked at 2 weeks with X-rays at 4, 8 and possibly 12 weeks to monitor healing.

Physical rehabilitation after ALD surgery

Typically, rehabilitation should begin about 2 weeks after surgery. Weekly in-office sessions and daily at-home exercises are prescribed to expedite healing and improve muscle mass and range of motion.

In addition, oral joint supplements and omega-3 fatty acids, adjusting nutrition to maintain a healthy weight during recovery, and gradually increasing activity are all crucial to achieve a long-term successful outcome.

Schedule a consultation

If you or your primary care veterinarian would like us to evaluate whether your pet is a candidate for ALD surgery, please schedule a consultation by calling 301.778.7781 or request an appointment online.

Advanced Orthopedics

Sports Medicine and Rehab

Advanced Orthopedics

Sports Medicine and Rehab

Angular Limb Deformities (ALDs)