Stephen Kerpsack, DVM, MS, DACVS
Did You Know??
Distal ulnar growth plate closure can occur in any immature dog that has trauma to the antebrachium. In some cases, it can occur when no fracture is present. Due to the anatomy of the distal ulnar growth plate, there is an increase risk of damage. Most ulnar growth comes from the distal growth plate allowing growth plate damage to be associated with significant deformity over time. Malalignment of the elbow, rotation of the carpus, and valgus deformity occur. This can be diagnosed by radiographs that show closure of the growth plate. Early diagnosis and diagnosis when the patient is younger have been shown to lead to a better surgical outcome. This is a condition when a “wait and see” approach leads to long term dysfunction and pain.