Three-dimensional computed tomographic angular measurements of the canine tibia using a bone-centered coordinate system.

Introduction: Canine tibial alignment is determined by two-dimensional angular measurements, and tibial torsion is challenging. Aim of the study was the development and evaluation of a CT technique to measure canine tibial varus and torsion angles independent from positioning and truly three-dimensional.

Materials And Methods: A bone-centered 3D cartesian coordinate system was introduced into the CT-scans of canine tibiae and aligned with the anatomical planes of the bone based on osseous reference points.

Computed tomographic angular measurements using a bone-centered three-dimensional coordinate system are accurate in a femoral torsional deformity model and precise in clinical canine patients.

Introduction: In small animal orthopedics, angular measurements in the canine femur are often applied in clinical patients with bone deformities and especially in complex and severe cases. Computed tomography (CT) has been shown to be more precise and accurate than two-dimensional radiography, and several methods are described. Measurement techniques evaluated in normal bones must prove accuracy in deformed bones in clinical settings.

Introduction of a bone-centered three-dimensional coordinate system enables computed tomographic canine femoral angle measurements independent of positioning.

Introduction: Measurement of torsional deformities and varus alignment in the canine femur is clinically and surgically important but difficult. Computed tomography (CT) generates true three-dimensional (3D) information and is used to overcome the limitations of radiography. The 3D CT images can be rotated freely, but the final view for angle measurements remains a subjective variable decision, especially in severe and complex angular and torsional deformities.