Free-Form Bilateral Multiplanar External Skeletal Fixation for Pes Varus Correction in a Miniature Dachshund

This report describes the surgical correction of a pes varus deformity in a 13 mo old miniature dachshund using free-form bilateral multiplanar external skeletal fixation (ESF). The dog exhibited lameness in the right pelvic limb, with a varus deformity of the distal tibia and grade 2 lateral patellar luxation. Radiographic and computed tomography imaging confirmed the presence of varus in the distal diaphyseal portion of the right tibia, without procurvatum or internal torsion. Medial opening wedge osteotomy and free-form bilateral multiplanar ESF successfully corrected the deformity. Dynamization was performed by removing the lateral column 3 mo after surgery, followed by the removal of all transfixation pins and the medial column under sedation 4 mo after surgery. The dog remained free of clinical signs at the last follow-up 24 mo after surgery, although residual pin tract holes were evident on radiographs. Free-form bilateral multiplanar ESF is an alternative rigid fixation method for pes varus correction, allowing technically simple relative to plate fixation, three-dimensional precise adjustments, and staged dynamization.