Effect of limb position on elbow congruity with CT evaluation.
OBJECTIVE
To determine if computed tomographic (CT) measurement of radio-ulnar congruence (RUC) is affected by limb position.


METHODS
Prospective study.


METHODS
Labrador Retrievers (n=10).


METHODS
Each dog had both elbows imaged in neutral, supination, and pronation positions using helical CT acquisition, at 1 mm increments, in a transverse plane. RUC was calculated using a previously reported method and a new technique using 3-D image processing and measurements determined by a coordinate system.


RESULTS
The limits of agreement showed that comparing any pair of elbow positions yielded large discrepancies in measurements with the previously reported technique. Better agreement between pairs of elbow positions with reduced discrepancy was achieved using the 3-D technique. Variation in antebrachium positioning did yield a difference in congruence.


CONCLUSIONS
Limb position (supination, pronation) affects elbow congruity measurements using CT analysis. Use of 3-D image processing may allow for improved elbow congruity measurements compared with other 2-D measurement techniques.


CONCLUSIONS
Limb position must be controlled when performing CT evaluation of elbows for incongruity. 3-D imaging appears to be less affected by limb position than conventional 2-D analysis when assessing radioulnar incongruence.
House
Mark R
MR
Department of Surgery, Long Island Veterinary Specialists, Plainview, NY 11803, USA. marhouse@hotmail.com
Marino
Dominic J
DJ
Lesser
Martin L
ML
D000818:Animals; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D005552:Forelimb / Q000473:pathology*; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D008297:Male; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000662:veterinary*