The skeletal system in horses comprises a complex structure of bones that provide support, protection, and mobility. Equine bones are involved in various physiological functions, including mineral storage and hematopoiesis. The bone structure in horses is categorized into different types, such as long bones, short bones, flat bones, and irregular bones, each serving specific roles in movement and stability. Research in this area explores topics such as bone development, remodeling, and the impact of nutrition and exercise on bone health. This page gathers peer-reviewed studies and academic articles that focus on the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of bones in horses, offering insights into conditions such as fractures, bone diseases, and the effects of aging on the equine skeletal system.
Fuerst A, Derungs S, von Rechenberg B, Auer JA, Schense J, Watson J.To describe the treatment of a subchondral bone cyst in the proximal phalanx with parathyroid hormone peptide-enriched fibrin hydrogel in a warmblood filly. The cyst was localized with computer-assisted orthopaedic surgery, then curetted and finally filled with parathyroid hormone fragment peptide 1-34 (PTH(1-34)) covalently attached to a fibrin hydrogel. The cyst healed quickly without any complications. This result supports the hypothesis that PTH(1-34) delivered locally in a fibrin hydrogel may improve the postoperative prognosis of surgical management of subchondral bone cysts in horses. S...
Li H, Zou X, Springer M, Briest A, Lind M, Bünger C.Randomized and self-controlled study with anterior lumbar interbody fusion in a porcine model. Objective: To determine the osteoinductive potential of an equine bone protein extract in anterior interbody spinal fusion. Background: Interbody spinal fusion with bone graft transplantation is a common spine procedure. Complications related to bone graft harvesting are still a major concern. Equine demineralized bone matrix has been reported to be osteoinductive. However, the application of equine bone protein extract in spine fusion has not been documented. In this experiment, we evaluated equine ...
Lenard ZM, Lester NV, O'hara AJ, Hopper BJ, Lester GD.A 4-year-old Arab mare was diagnosed with disseminated cryptococcosis, including osteomyelitis of the proximal phalanx of the left hind limb, osteomyelitis with associated soft tissue granuloma of a rib and disseminated, large cryptococcal nodules in the lungs. The lesion in the dorsoproximal aspect of the proximal phalanx had a large area of cortical lysis with spiculated periosteal new bone and extensive soft tissue swelling. The affected rib had a pathological fracture. Cryptococcal osteomyelitis has not been previously reported in horses but should be considered as a differential diagnosis...
Gupte CM, Bull AM, Murray R, Amis AA.The purpose of this study was to investigate the presence, position and relative sizes of the meniscofemoral ligaments (MFL) in three quadrupeds and humans and relate these to the caudal slope of the lateral tibial plateau. Canine, ovine and equine stifles and human knees were dissected to identify the presence of MFLs, their obliquity in relation to the caudal cruciate ligaments (CCL), the relative size and shape of the MFLs compared with the CCL, the points of femoral attachment of the MFLs and CCL, and the distance between the MFLs and CCL at their midpoints. The lateral tibial condyle was ...
Lawson SE, Chateau H, Pourcelot P, Denoix JM, Crevier-Denoix N.As equine musculoskeletal models become common, it is important to determine their sensitivity to the simplifications used. A subject-specific distal forelimb model was created using bones extracted from CT scans to examine movement from in-vivo invasive-marker motion capture. The movements of the sesamoid bones were simulated using the constraints of maintaining an isometric virtual ligament and maintaining contact between the appropriate articular surfaces, creating a variable moment arm for the tendons. The simulation of the proximal sesamoid bones was compared to movement recorded in-vitro...
Stock KF, Distl O.Results of mare performance tests in the field (MPT-F) of 10,949 mares, mare performance tests at station (MPT-S) of 1,712 mares, and inspections of horses intended for sale at riding horse auctions (AU) of 4,772 horses were used to investigate genetic correlations between corresponding performance traits. Mare performance tests were held in 1995 to 2004 and auction inspections in 1999 to 2004. Scores on a scale from 0 to 10 were given for gaits under rider (walk, trot, canter), rideability (evaluated by judging commission and test rider), free-jumping (ability, style, total), and character. R...
Zarucco L, Wisner ER, Swanstrom MD, Stover SM.Biomechanical models that compute the lengths and forces of muscle-tendon units are broadly applicable to the study of factors that promote injury and the planning and effects of orthopedic surgical procedures in equine athletes. A three-dimensional (3D) generic musculoskeletal model of the equine forelimb comprised of bony segment, muscle-tendon, and ligament information, was developed based on high-resolution computed tomographic (CT) and T1-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images from an isolated forelimb of a Thoroughbred racehorse. Image fusion was achieved through coregistration of CT an...
Norrdin RW, Stover SM.Mechanical overload leads to a common arthrosis in the metacarpal condyle of the fetlock joint of racehorses. This is usually asymptomatic but severe forms can cause lameness. Subchondral bone failure is often present and the predictability of the site provided an opportunity to study of the progression of bone failure from microcracks to actual collapse of subchondral bone. Twenty-five fetlock condyles from racehorses with various stages of disease were selected. Stages ranged from mild through severe subchondral bone sclerosis, to the collapse of bone and indentation or loss of cartilage kno...
Sherman KM, Myhre GD, Heymann EI.A 12-year-old Standardbred gelding was referred for swelling of the right metacarpophalangeal joint. Results: Ultrasonography of the right metacarpal area revealed hypoechoic areas in the right digital sheath and metacarpophalangeal joint consistent with synovial effusion. Radiography of the right metacarpophalangeal joint revealed lysis of the axial border of the proximal sesamoid bones. Aspergillus fumigatus was detected on fungal culture of synovial fluid. Results: Regional limb perfusion (150 mg of amikacin in 60 mL of saline [0.9% NaCl] solution perfused for 30 minutes) was performed 2 an...
Wittwer C, Hamann H, Rosenberger E, Distl O.This study aimed to quantify the factors associated with the prevalence of the radiological signs of osteochondrosis (OC) and osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) in South German Coldblood (SGC) horses. The prevalence of OC and OCD in fetlock and hock joints was analysed in 167 young coldblood horses with a mean age of 14 months. The presence of at least one osteochondrotic lesion (OC) in fetlock or hock joints was documented for 61.7% of the horses and 26.9% of the horses had osseus fragments. Osteochondrotic findings at the dorsal aspect of the sagittal ridge of the third metacarpal/metatarsal bo...
Scheidegger E, Geissbühlerl U, Doherr MG, Lang J.Bone scintigraphy is a very sensitive diagnostic tool to detect elevated bone metabolism. In cases of fractures and fissure fractures, the radiopharmaceutical uptake in the bone is said to be increased within a few hours after the injury. In this retrospective study, the scintigraphic uptake characteristics at the fracture site of 36 horses with radiographically confirmed fractures or fissure fractures were evaluated. Uptake ratios between the fracture region and adjacent normal bone or soft tissue activity respectively were calculated and compared to different anamnestic and radiographic data...
White LM, Sussman MS, Hurtig M, Probyn L, Tomlinson G, Kandel R.To prospectively assess T2 mapping characteristics of normal articular cartilage and of cartilage at sites of arthroscopic repair, including comparison with histologic results and collagen organization assessed at polarized light microscopy (PLM). Methods: Study protocol was compliant with the Canadian Council on Animal Care Guidelines and approved by the institutional animal care committee. Arthroscopic osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT) and microfracture arthroplasty (MFx) were performed in knees of 10 equine subjects (seven female, three male; age range, 3-5 years). A site of art...
McD￮ LA, Anderson GI, Wright GM, Ryan DA.Bone cell cultures were evaluated to determine if osteogenic cell populations at different skeletal sites in the horse are heterogeneous. Osteogenic cells were isolated from cortical and cancellous bone in vitro by an explant culture method. Subcultured cells were induced to differentiate into bone-forming osteoblasts. The osteoblast phenotype was confirmed by immunohistochemical testing for osteocalcin and substantiated by positive staining of cells for alkaline phosphatase and the matrix materials collagen and glycosaminoglycans. Bone nodules were stained by the von Kossa method and counted....
Waselau M, Bertone AL, Green EM.To report treatment of a unilateral comminuted fourth carpal bone (C4) fracture associated with carpal instability by partial carpal arthrodesis (PCA) of the middle carpal joint (MCJ) and carpometacarpal joint (CMCJ). Methods: Case Report. Methods: An 8-month-old Arabian filly. Methods: A C4 slab fracture was diagnosed radiographically; however, fracture comminution was conclusively diagnosed after computed tomographic (CT) imaging. PCA of the MCJ and CMCJ was performed with 2 narrow dynamic compression plates. Results: PCA provided appropriate carpal stability and correct limb alignment immed...
Gygax D, Lischer C, Auer JA.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. Methods: In vitro experimental study. Methods: 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 ...
Morgan JW, Santschi EM, Zekas LJ, Scollay-Ward MC, Markel MD, Radtke CL, Sample SJ, Keuler NS, Muir P.To compare the orthogonal radiographic (OR) and computed tomographic (CT) appearance of paired Thoroughbred racehorse limbs with severe condylar fracture. Methods: In vitro study. Methods: Cadaveric paired limbs with severe condylar fracture (n=11 horses). Methods: Four standard radiographic and multiple transverse CT images were obtained of the fractured and contralateral limbs centering on the metacarpo/metatarsophalangeal (fetlock) joints. Radiographs and CT images were graded by 4 raters, and interobserver agreement was calculated. Imaging evaluations were supplemented by fetlock joint dis...
Vlaminck LE, Huys L, Maes D, Steenhaut ML, Gasthuys F.To evaluate the effect of alveolar bone substitute on post-extraction drift of maxillary cheek teeth in ponies. Methods: In vivo longitudinal experimental study. Methods: Five ponies (5-7 years) with a healthy dentition. Methods: Both maxillary 4th premolar teeth (Triadan 08) were surgically removed. One alveolus was filled with a biocompatible non-resorbable bone substitute (Bioplant 24), whereas the other healed by second intention. A polyvinylsiloxane plug and spring wire isolated the bone substitute from the oral environment. Pathologic changes to dentition and adjacent soft tissue were re...
Sod GA, Hubert JD, Martin GS, Gill MS.To compare biomechanical properties of a prototype 5.5 mm tapered shaft cortical screw (TSS) and 5.5 mm AO cortical screw for an equine third metacarpal dynamic compression plate (EM-DCP) fixation to repair osteotomized equine third metacarpal (MC3) bones. Methods: Paired in vitro biomechanical testing of cadaveric equine MC3 with a mid-diaphyseal osteotomy, stabilized by 1 of 2 methods for fracture fixation. Methods: Adult equine cadaveric MC3 bones (n=12 pairs). Methods: Twelve pairs of equine MC3 were divided into 3 groups (4 pairs each) for (1) 4-point bending single cycle to failure testi...
Arkill KP, Winlove CP.Articular cartilage extracellular matrix imposes a significant transport barrier to albumin, the principal carrier of fatty acids. It has not been previously established whether it also influences the transport of fatty acids important for chondrocyte metabolism. Albumin was labelled with rhodamine-maleimide and bound to NBD-labelled lauric acid. Plugs of fresh equine metacarpal-phalangeal cartilage and subchondral bone were incubated with the complex at 4 degrees C for 2-160 h. The fluorophore distribution was quantified using quantitative microscopy in histological sections. The fluorescence...
Carstanjen B.Effective, non-invasive bone assessment methods for screening, diagnosis and follow-up of the skeleton are more and more requested in veterinary medicine. In contrast to clinical parameters, invasive methods and imaging techniques, indices of bone turnover is a tool for bone metabolism evaluation of the whole skeleton. Biochemical bone markers therefore provide a more real-time assessment of the bone status with simple blood- or urine-analysis. This article surveys currently available biochemical marker of bone metabolism used in veterinary medicine. Additionally, information is provided about...
Schnabel LV, Bramlage LR, Mohammed HO, Embertson RM, Ruggles AJ, Hopper SA.Studies have shown that surgical removal of apical fracture fragments in Standardbred racehorses carries the best prognosis for return to racing performance, but there are no reports involving mature Thoroughbred (TB) racehorses. Objective: To describe the incidence of apical proximal sesamoid fractures in TB racehorses and determine probability and quality of racing performance after arthroscopic removal of such fractures in TB racehorses age > or = 2 years. Methods: Medical records and pre- and post operative race records of TB racehorses age > or = 2 years that underwent arthroscopic surger...
Frisbie DD, Cross MW, McIlwraith CW.Histological measurements of the thickness of non-calcified and calcified cartilage, as well as the subchondral bone plate in five locations on the femoral trochlea and medial femoral condyles of species were used in preclinical studies of articular cartilage and compared to those of the human knee. Cadaver specimens were obtained of six human knees, as well as six equine, six goat, six dog, six sheep and six rabbit stifle joints (the animal equivalent of the human knee). Specimens were taken from the lateral trochlear ridge, medial trochlear ridge and medial femoral condyle. After histopathol...
Jackson BF, Dyson PK, Hattersley RD, Kelly HR, Pfeiffer DU, Price JS.To investigate the relationship between stage of estrous cycle and bone cell activity in Thoroughbreds. Methods: Blood samples collected from forty-seven 2-year-old Thoroughbred mares in training for racing. Methods: Blood samples were collected monthly (in April through September) from the mares. Stage of estrus was determined by assessing serum progesterone concentration. Bone cell activity was determined by measuring concentrations of 2 markers of bone formation (osteocalcin and the carboxy-terminal propeptide of type I collagen [PICP]) and a marker of bone resorption (the cross-linked carb...
Barber MJ, Sampson SN, Schneider RK, Baszler T, Tucker RL.A 5-year-old Appaloosa mare was examined for severe left forelimb lameness of 4 months' duration. Results: Lameness was evident at the walk and trot and was exacerbated when the horse circled to the left. Signs of pain were elicited in response to hoof testers placed over the frog of the left front hoof, and a palmar digital nerve block eliminated the lameness. Radiographs revealed no abnormalities, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed increased bone density in the medullary cavity of the distal sesamoid (navicular) bone in the proton density and T2-weighted images and a defect in the...
Joyce J, Baxter GM, Sarrafian TL, Stashak TS, Trotter G, Frisbie D.To determine the clinical applications, short and long-term survival, and complications of using transfixation pin casts for treatment of comminuted phalangeal fractures in adult horses. Methods: Retrospective case series. Methods: 20 horses. Methods: Medical records were reviewed to obtain information regarding signalment, fracture location, treatment methods, complications, and short-term survival (discharge from hospital). Long-term follow-up information was obtained via contact with owners or trainers. Results: 12 fractures were in a hind limb, and 8 were in a forelimb. Fourteen fractures ...
Hobbs SJ, Richards J, Matuszewski B, Brigden C.To develop and evaluate a marker cluster set for measuring sagittal and extrasagittal movement of joints in the distal portion of the forelimb in ponies. Methods: 4 ponies. Methods: 5 infrared cameras were positioned on a concrete walkway in a frontal-sagittal arc and calibrated. Four segments were defined: hoof, middle phalanx, proximal phalanx, and metacarpus. Rigid clusters with 4 retroreflective markers were placed on each segment. A static trial was recorded with additional anatomic markers on the medial and lateral joint lines. Those anatomic markers were removed, and kinematic data were...
Lejeune JP, Schneider N, Caudron I, Duvivier DH, Serteyn D.Ossification of collateral cartilages is a common radiographic finding in draught horses and indication of a high frequency of interphalangeal osteo-arthropathy have been found in Ardenner horses. This study first aimed at following the evolution of the digits of the forelimbs on radiographic images in a group of 32 Ardenner horses from weaning to 852 +/- 19 days and, secondly, at evaluating the clinical significance of the observed radiographic changes. At 250 +/- 21 days, only 23% of the horses presented a small separate ossification centre of collateral cartilages above the level of the dis...
Rawlinson JE, Bass L, Campoy L, Broman A, Prytherch B.To characterize the anatomy of the mental foramen and determine associations with age, weight, sex and breed. Methods: Retrospective descriptive study. Methods: Forty-one horses, 0.6-25.2 years and weighing 136-820 kg. Methods: Computed tomography (CT) studies of equine heads performed over 5 years were evaluated in multiplanar and three-dimensional reconstruction. Measurements obtained were positioning of the foramen along the mandible, foramen height and width, foramen-canal angulation and rostral canal mineralization. Exploratory statistical analyses investigated associations between measu...
Murray RC, Blunden TS, Branch MV, Tranquille CA, Dyson SJ, Parkin TD, Goodship AE.To investigate effects of age on thickness and morphologic characteristics of hyaline cartilage, calcified cartilage, total cartilage, and subchondral bone (SCB) in the equine tarsometatarsal joint. Methods: 23 tarsal joints from cadavers of 23 ponies (11 days to 25 years old); ponies were limited to pasture exercise and euthanatized for reasons not related to this study. Procedures-Tarsi were allocated into several age groups (11 days old [n = 3], 6 to 9 months old [4], 2 to 3 years old [3], 6 to 8 years old [4], 11 to 17 years old [6], and 20 to 25 years old [3]). Histologic examination and ...
Ruohoniemi M, Ryhänen V, Tulamo RM.Radiographic findings in the navicular bone and distal interphalangeal joint as well as the ossification status of the collateral cartilages of the distal phalanx were evaluated in 100 Finnhorse cadaver forefeet. The most common shapes of the proximal articular margin of the navicular bone were convex and straight. Remodeling of the navicular bone was common, especially on the lateral extremity. No bony fragments were identified at the distal flexor margin even though this area appeared irregular in several feet. Several large, rounded or lollipop-shaped synovial invaginations were identified ...
Fuerst AE, Oswald S, Jäggin S, Piskoty G, Michel S, Auer JA.The objective of this postmortem study was to determine the fracture configurations of the equine radius and tibia after a simulated kick. Fracture configurations of 35 radii and 36 tibiae from 19 adult horses were evaluated after a simulated kick in an experimental ex-vivo study. The bones were dissected, the proximal and distal ends were embedded in resin, fixed horizontally and preloaded in compression, and a steel impactor, designed to simulate a shod equine hoof, was dropped from a height of three to six metres onto the diaphysis. The experiments were filmed with a high-speed camera (30,0...
Le Roux C, Carstens A.Axial sesamoiditis or osteitis of the proximal sesamoid bones (PSBs) in the horse is described as a rare condition. The cause remains unknown and speculative, with vascular, infectious, and traumatic aetiologies implicated. It is specifically associated with injury of the palmar or plantar ligament (PL), also known as the intersesamoidean ligament. Imaging findings are generally rewarding and radiological changes are typical, if not pathognomonic, for the condition. Lesions consist of bone lysis at the apical to mid-body axial margins of the PSBs, with variable degrees of joint effusion. Radio...
MacGillivray KC, Graham TD, Parente EJ.A 2-year-old male Thoroughbred was evaluated for multiple firm, raised nodules of the maxilla and mandible that had been present since 6 months of age. The horse was evaluated as a yearling with a final histologic diagnosis of fibrosarcoma. As a 2-year-old, the colt made a loud upper airway sound and was agitated after strenuous exercise. Results of upper airway endoscopy indicated severe narrowing of the nasal passages and pharynx with normal resting function. Radiography revealed multiple circular bony lesions in the mandible, maxilla, multiple long bones, and cervical vertebrae. Biopsy spec...
Ladefoged S, Grulke S, Busoni V, Serteyn D, Salciccia A, Verwilghen D.To describe the management and outcome of limb fractures in small domestic equids treated with a modified Thomas splint-cast combination (MTSCC). Methods: Retrospective case series. Methods: Client owned horses and donkeys. Methods: Medical records, including radiographs, were reviewed for details of animals diagnosed with a limb fracture and treated by external coaptation using a MTSCC (2001-2012). Follow-up >6 months after discharge was obtained via telephone consultation with owners or veterinarians. Results: Nine horses and 4 donkeys were identified with fractures of the tibial diaphysi...
Faramarzi B, Salinger A, Kaneps A, Nout-Lomas Y, Greene H, Dong F. The goal of this study was to quantify external and internal anatomical characteristics of the foal foot throughout the first year of age. Digital radiographs and photographs were taken bimonthly of the forefeet of nine Arabian foals, beginning at about 2 weeks of age until 12 months of age. Sixty-eight linear and angular variables were measured using NIH (National Institutes of Health) software. Statistical analyses were performed using piecewise random coefficient model and -values < 0.05 were considered significant. Distinct changes in hoof development were identified betwe...
Furniss C, Carstens A, van den Berg SS.This study involves the evaluation of pre-purchase radiographic studies of South African Thoroughbred yearlings. Radiographic changes were recorded and compared with similar international studies. The study differs from other studies in that a lower prevalence of pedal osteitis (1.26%), dorsal osteochondral fragmentation of the metatarsophalangeal joint (1.60%), distal metacarpal sagittal ridge changes (15.7%), ulnar carpal bone lucencies (8.33%), carpal osteophytes (1.19%), distal intertarsal and tarsometatarsal joint radiographic changes (9.92%), tarsal osteochondrosis lesions (4.40%) and st...
Lewis AJ, Sod GA, Burba DJ, Mitchell CF.To compare compression pressure (CP) of 6.5 mm Acutrak Plus (AP) and 4.5 mm AO cortical screws (AO) when inserted in simulated lateral condylar fractures of equine 3rd metacarpal (MC3) bones. Methods: Paired in vitro biomechanical testing. Methods: Cadaveric equine MC3 bones (n=12 pair). Methods: Complete lateral condylar osteotomies were created parallel to the midsagittal ridge at 20, 12, and 8 mm axial to the epicondylar fossa on different specimens grouped accordingly. Interfragmentary compression was measured using a pressure sensor placed in the fracture plane before screw placement for ...
Jenner F, Kirker-Head C.To determine the physiologic response of the equine navicular bone to core decompression surgery in healthy horses. Methods: Experimental in vivo study. Methods: Healthy adult horses (n=6). Methods: Core decompression was completed by creating three 2.5-mm-diameter drill channels into the navicular bone under arthroscopic control. The venous (P(V)), arterial (P(A)), articular (P(DIPJ)), and intraosseous pressures (IOP) were recorded before and after decompression drilling. Each IOP measurement consisted of a baseline (IOP(B)) and a stress test (intramedullary injection of saline solution, IOP(...
Van Houtte J, Vandenberghe F, Zheng G, Huysmans T, Sijbers J.Most digital models of the equine distal limb that are available in the community are static and/or subject specific; hence, they have limited applications in veterinary research. In this paper, we present an articulatable model of the entire equine distal limb based on statistical shape modeling. The model describes the inter-subject variability in bone geometry while maintaining proper jointspace distances to support model articulation toward different poses. Shape variation modes are explained in terms of common biometrics in order to ease model interpretation from a veterinary point of vie...
Staller GS, Richardson DW, Nunamaker DM, Provost M.Contact area and pressure between 6-hole broad dynamic compression plates and 20 pairs of equine third metatarsal bones were measured using nonluted and luted plating techniques. Pressure-sensitive film (pressure ranges 10 to 50 MPa and 50 to 130 MPa) was used as the static pressure transducer. Nonluted and one of two luting techniques were tested on each pair of bones; each luting technique was tested on 20 bones. Quantitative determinations of contact area and pressure were made using computerized image processing techniques. Mean (+/- SD) total contact area for nonluted plates was 18.49% +/...
Russell JW, Hall MS, Kelly GM.A 3-year-old Thoroughbred gelding was presented with a grade 3/5 lameness of the right forelimb and effusion of the extensor carpi radialis tendon sheath (ECRTS). Radiographic and ultrasonographic examinations revealed an osteochondroma on the cranial aspect of the distal radius projecting into the fibrous lining of the ECRTS. An open surgical approach was used to remove the osteochondroma and some of the proliferative synovial tissue. Conclusions: Six months after surgery the clinical signs had resolved and the horse raced successfully.
Miyakoshi D, Senba H, Shikichi M, Maeda M, Shibata R, Misumi K.This study aimed to evaluate whether radiographic abnormalities at yearling sales were associated with the failure to start racing at 2-3 years of age. Radiographic abnormalities in the carpal (n=852), tarsal (n=976), metacarpophalangeal (n=1,055), and metatarsophalangeal joints (n=1,031) from 1,082 horses, recorded at yearling sale, were reviewed. Eighty-two horses (7.6%) failed to start racing. Radiographic abnormalities such as wedged or collapsed tarsal bones, irregular lucency of a sagittal ridge at the distal aspect of the distal third metatarsal bone, and proximal dorsal fragmentation o...
Stover SM, Hornof WJ, Richardson GL, Meagher DM.History, physical examination, and bone scintigraphy were used to diagnose central and/or third tarsal bone trauma in 3 acutely lame horses. In all 3 cases, the results of initial radiographic examination were negative. Bone scintigraphy revealed focal, intense radioisotope uptake at the level of the distal tarsal bones in the 3 horses. Radiographs obtained 4 weeks after injury in one horse demonstrated a slab fracture of the central tarsal bone. Conservative management of the tarsal bone disease resulted in acceptable return to function in all 3 horses.
Drum MG, Les CM, Park RD, McIlwraith CW, Kawcak CE.To evaluate whether cutting equine subchondral bone to demarcate specific regions of interest (ROIs) influences the mean density for that bone as measured via quantitative computed tomography (QCT). Sample population-2 metacarpophalangeal joints from equine cadavers. Methods: The distal portion of the third metacarpal bone of each intact metacarpophalangeal joint was scanned via CT to simulate in vivo conditions. Each joint was subsequently disarticulated and dissected, and the distal portion of the dissected third metacarpal bone in air was scanned. Then, six 1-cm(2) areas representing ROIs w...
Kaneko M, Oikawa M, Yoshihara T.Pathomorphological analysis was performed on fractured bones of 470 race horses. The most common fracture site was the limb (98% of cases), and the majority of fractures were intra-articular. Focal osteochondral lesions consisting of osteochondrosis, osteonecrosis and osteosclerosis were observed frequently in fractured and non-fractured bones. In the fractured bones, the lesions frequently appeared in the vicinity of the fractured site. Under the influence of antecedent osteochondrosis from the young stage, osteosclerotic and osteonecrotic lesions may have been induced by immoderate exercise ...
Hall S, Smith R, Ramzan PHL, Head M, Robinson N, Parker R.Rib fractures in adult horses are poorly documented. Objective: To describe the presenting signs, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of horses diagnosed with rib fracture. Methods: Retrospective case series. Methods: The clinical records and diagnostic images of all adult horses diagnosed with a rib fracture at three referral centres over a 15-year period were reviewed. Results: Seventy-three horses met the inclusion criteria. Horses presented due to either resistance to ridden work and poor performance (n = 41), lameness (n = 21) or trauma (n = 7). In four horses, the presenting complaint...
Hance SR, Bramlage LR, Schneider RK, Embertson RM.Medical records of 38 horses less than 1 year of age and diagnosed as having a fracture of the femoral diaphysis, metaphysis or distal physis were evaluated. Twenty-six foals had fractures of the femoral diaphysis or metaphysis with the most common fracture configuration being comminuted. Twelve foals had distal physeal fractures with the most common fracture configuration being a Salter-Harris type II. Twenty-one foals with fractures of the capital femoral physis, neck or greater trochanter during the same time period were excluded from this study. Surgical repair was attempted in 16 diaphyse...
Steckel RR.Bone scanning to help diagnose orthopedic disease has been used in human patients for over two decades. The value of this diagnostic tool has been well established in helping to identify a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. It has only recently been used by veterinarians for more accurate characterization of equine musculoskeletal disease. The technique offers the major advantage of increased sensitivity over standard radiographic imaging. The case material illustrated here shows that except for consistent identification of bone cysts, most of the pathologic changes to the horse's musculos...
Dik KJ, van den Belt AJ, van den Broek J.Estimating the shape of the proximal articular border of the navicular bone and grading the radiological navicular bone condition (grades 3 and 4 representing the most severe changes), the aim of this study was to assess potential age-related implications of the previously reported shape predisposition to navicular disease in 746 normal and 174 clinically affected Dutch Warmbloods age 3-19 years. A significant, age-independent, shape-grade association found in normal and affected horses emphasises the fundamental character of the shape predisposition to navicular disease. A significant age-rel...
McD￮ LA, Stover SM, Taylor KT.To determine cyclic biomechanical properties of gap osteotomized adult equine tibiae stabilized with an equine interlocking nail (EIN). Methods: In vitro experimental biomechanical investigation. Methods: Thirteen adult equine cadaveric tibiae. Methods: Adult equine tibiae with transverse, midshaft, 1-cm gap osteotomies, stabilized with an equine interlocking nail, underwent cyclic biomechanical testing in vitro under axial compression, 4-point bending, and torsion. Different specimens were subjected to different load levels that represented estimated in vivo loads at 2 Hz for 740,000 cycles. ...
Verschooten F, Roels J, Lampo P, Desmet P, De Moor A, Picavet T.Radiographic measurements from the lateromedial projection of the equine foot were compared in three groups of horses. Group 1 consisted of 143 normal horses, group 2 were 60 horses with clinical navicular disease and group 3 were 161 horses with clinical and radiographic navicular disease. Several measurements tended to be larger in group 3 than group 1. An enlargement of the navicular bone was observed in proximodistal and dorsopalmar directions. Partial enlargement of the pedal bone was observed in groups 2 and 3. Few differences were observed between age classes. All horses aged four years...
Thampi P, Tabbaa SM, Johnstone B, Wimmer MA, Laurent MP, Wayne McIlwraith C, Frisbie DD.The equine model of posttraumatic osteoarthritis (OA) mimics certain aspects of the naturally occurring disease, both in horses and humans. The objective of this study was to assess articular cartilage degeneration in a posttraumatic OA model using the established macroscopic and microscopic scoring systems and compare them with a novel surface topography analysis. OA was induced in the carpal joint of 15 (n = 15) mixed breed horses. Surface changes on the articular cartilage were characterized using osteochondral blocks from the third carpal bone (C3) and radial carpal bone using surface...
Cruz AM, Pharr JW, Bailey JV, Barber SM, Fretz PB.To evaluate podotrochlear bursa (navicular bursa) endoscopy as a diagnostic technique in horses and to correlate observations to radiographic and pathologic findings. Methods: Descriptive study. Methods: Seventeen equine cadaver forelimbs. Methods: Five standard radiographic views of the navicular region and a bursographic study with lateromedial and caudal tangential radiographic views were taken of each forelimb. Radiographic scoring of the navicular bone (0, excellent; 1, good; 2, fair; 3, poor) was performed using a previously reported technique. Endoscopic examination was performed using ...
Sod GA, Riggs LM, Mitchell CF, Hubert JD, Martin GS.To compare in vitro monotonic biomechanical properties of an axial 3-hole, 4.5 mm narrow dynamic compression plate (DCP) using 5.5 mm cortical screws in conjunction with 2 abaxial transarticular 5.5 mm cortical screws inserted in lag fashion (DCP-TLS) with 3 parallel transarticular 5.5 mm cortical screws inserted in lag fashion (3-TLS) for the equine proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint arthrodesis. Methods: Paired in vitro biomechanical testing of 2 methods of stabilizing cadaveric adult equine forelimb PIP joints. Methods: Cadaveric adult equine forelimbs (n=15 pairs). Methods: For each fore...
Domanska-Kruppa N, Venner M, Bienert-Zeit A.Overjet is defined as the projection of the maxillary incisors labial to their antagonists in a horizontal direction. This malocclusion in horses can lead to incorrect dental wear and is aesthetically undesirable. Whether lengthening of the maxilla or shortening of the mandible causes the condition has not yet been determined. Therefore, a measurement technique was developed to investigate the correlations between skull bone measurements in overjet-affected individuals. The position of the incisors in 650 Warmblood foals born in a private German stud was examined at two weeks of age, revealing...
Bos H, van der Meij GJ, Dik KJ.Bone structure, nutrient canals, form and definition, and a total evaluation of both fore navicular bones were radiologically evaluated in 169 three- and four-year-old Dutch warmblood mares divided into eleven daughter (half sister) groups. On the basis of the 'total evaluation', differences between the three- and four-year-old horses were detectable. Using the 'total evaluation', significant differences were found between daughter groups consisting of three-year-old mares. These differences support the theory that podotrochleosis may be (partly) due to the presence of genetic factors. The pos...
Cohen JM, Southwood LL, Engiles J, Leitch M, Nunamaker DM.To examine the efficacy and biocompatibility of a thiolated gelatin-thiolated carboxymethyl hyaluronan (CMHA-SGX) sponge as an osteoconductive device in an equine second and fourth metacarpal bone defect model. Methods: Seven millimetre segmental ostectomies were created bilaterally in the second and fourth metacarpal bones of four horses. The left and right metacarpal defects were randomly assigned to (1) be filled with a CMHA-SGX sponge (treated) or (2) were left unfilled (control). The duration of the study was nine weeks. Bone healing was evaluated using serial radiology, as well as histol...
