System overview
The 3D Medical titanium hoof-sparing plate is designed for distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint arthrodesis while preserving the hoof capsule.
The construct combines a contoured dorsal plate, 5.5 mm cortex and locking screws in the middle and distal phalanges, and two divergent trans-articular screws providing both dorsal and palmar/plantar joint compression.
Advantages: hoof capsule preserved; compression obtained on both the dorsal and palmar/plantar aspects of the joint; divergent trans-articular screws for strong bone purchase in P2 and P3; locking screws for added stability; dedicated instruments (locking drill guides, centering spike, reduction sleeve) for accurate plate positioning.
Limitations: technically demanding procedure, requiring extensor process trimming, collateral ligament splitting and complete cartilage removal; plate position and screw trajectories must be confirmed on DP and LM views; excessive early tightening of the trans-articular screws may cause caudal sliding of P2.