Computer-assisted surgery for screw insertion into the distal sesamoid bone in horses: An in vitro study

Objective - To compare the precision of computer-assisted surgery with a conventional technique (CV) using a special guiding device for screw insertion into the distal sesamoid bone in horses. Study Design - In vitro experimental study. Sample Population - Cadaveric forelimb specimens. Methods - Insertion of a 3.5 mm cortex screw in lag fashion along the longitudinal axis of intact (non-fractured) distal sesamoid bones was evaluated in 2 groups (8 limbs each): CV and computer-assisted surgery (CAS). For CV, the screw was inserted using a special guiding device and fluoroscopy, whereas for CAS, the screw was inserted using computer-assisted navigation. The accuracy of screw placement was verified by radiography, computed tomography, and specimen dissection. Results - Surgical precision was better in CAS compared with CV. Conclusions - CAS improves the accuracy of lateromedial screw insertion, in lag fashion, into the distal sesamoid bone. Clinical Relevance - The CAS technique should be considered for improved accuracy of screw insertion in fractures of the distal sesamoid bone. (c) Copyright 2006 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.