Lameness in horses is a condition characterized by an abnormal gait or stance due to pain or mechanical dysfunction affecting the limbs or spine. It is a common issue in equine practice and can result from a variety of causes, including injury, infection, or degenerative diseases. Lameness can affect a horse's performance and quality of life, making accurate diagnosis and management important for equine health. Diagnostic techniques often include physical examination, imaging, and gait analysis. This page aggregates peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the etiology, diagnostic methods, and management strategies for lameness in horses.
Leise BS, Faleiros RR, Watts M, Johnson PJ, Black SJ, Belknap JK.There is a need to assess the laminar inflammatory response in a laminitis model that more closely resembles clinical cases of sepsis-related laminitis than the black walnut extract (BWE) model. Objective: To determine if a similar pattern of laminar inflammation, characterised by proinflammatory cytokine expression, occurs in the CHO model of laminitis as has been previously reported for the BWE model. Methods: Sixteen horses administered 17.6 g of starch (85% corn starch/15% wood flour)/kg bwt via nasogastric (NG) tube were anaesthetised either after developing a temperature>38.9°C (DEV ...
Faleiros RR, Johnson PJ, Nuovo GJ, Messer NT, Black SJ, Belknap JK.While there is evidence of laminar leukocyte infiltration in black walnut extract (BWE)-induced laminitis, there is no such evidence for carbohydrate overload (CHO) laminitis. Objective: To assess presence of leukocytes and signs of epidermal stress/injury in the laminar tissue from horses with CHO-induced laminitis. Methods: Twenty-four adult horses. Methods: Immunohistochemistry for myeloid cell markers calprotectin (CP) and monocyte-specific marker (CD163) was performed on laminar sections obtained from 2 groups of horses in the CHO model: the developmental time point (DTP) group (n = 6) an...
Uberti B, Pressler BM, Alkabes SB, Chang CY, Moore GE, Lescun TB, Sojka JE.To investigate the effects of heparin administration on urine protein excretion during the developmental stages of experimentally induced laminitis in horses. Methods: 13 horses. Procedures-Horses received unfractionated heparin (80 U/kg, SC, q 8 h; n=7) or no treatment (control group; 6) beginning 3 days prior to induction of laminitis. All horses were given 3 oligofructose loading doses (1 g/kg each) at 24-hour intervals and a laminitis induction dose (10 g of oligofructose/kg) 24 hours following the final loading dose (designated as 0 hours) via nasogastric tube. Serum glucose and insulin c...
Waguespack R, Hanson RR.Navicular syndrome is a chronic and often progressive disease affecting the navicular bone and bursa, deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT), and associated soft tissue structures composing the navicular apparatus. This syndrome has long been considered one of the most common causes of forelimb lameness in horses. Diagnosis of navicular syndrome is based on history, physical examination, lameness examination, and peripheral and/or intraarticular diagnostic anesthesia. Several imaging techniques (e.g., radiography, ultrasonography, nuclear scintigraphy, thermography, computed tomography [CT], magnet...
Brooks SA, Bailey E.Inflammatory damage to the digital laminae, a structure responsible for suspension of the distal skeleton within the hoof capsule, results in a painful and often life-threatening disease in horses called laminitis. There can be many diverse causes of laminitis; however, previous work in the horse has suggested that in each case, the inflammation and resulting tissue damage is consistent with the action of mediators released from mast cells (MC), as well as the downstream consequences of their activation. The recent development of molecular genetics tools to characterize cells based on their tr...
McGowan TW, Pinchbeck G, Phillips CJ, Perkins N, Hodgson DR, McGowan CM.To describe the prevalence and risk factors for clinical signs of disease and owner-reported health or welfare issues of aged horses in Queensland, Australia. Methods: Owners of horses were contacted via an equestrian organisation in Queensland and asked to complete a questionnaire about their horses aged 15 years and older, to gain information about clinical signs observed in the horse and disease history. Owners were asked to identify health or welfare issues they felt were important in aged horses. Results: Owners were able to identify many clinical signs of disease, with 83% of horses havi...
Carrade DD, Owens SD, Galuppo LD, Vidal MA, Ferraro GL, Librach F, Buerchler S, Friedman MS, Walker NJ, Borjesson DL.The development of an allogeneic mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) product to treat equine disorders would be useful; however, there are limited in vivo safety data for horses. We hypothesized that the injection of self (autologous) and non-self (related allogeneic or allogeneic) MSC would not elicit significant alterations in physical examination, gait or synovial fluid parameters when injected into the joints of healthy horses. Methods: Sixteen healthy horses were used in this study. Group 1 consisted of foals (n = 6), group 2 consisted of their dams (n = 5) and group 3 consisted of half-siblings ...
Easter JL, Schumacher J, Watkins JP.Surgical arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint by transfixation casting was used to salvage a three-year-old filly and a yearling filly that were chronically lame because of infection of the DIP joint for breeding. Unlike previously described techniques for arthrodesis of the DIP joint, the technique used did not require insertion of implants across the joint, which may have contributed to the successful outcome.
Trump M, Kircher PR, Fürst A.Two fillies with hindlimb lameness and a tentative diagnosis of a pelvic fracture involving the acetabulum were examined using computed tomography (CT). The use of CT for these two cases revealed the exact course of the fractures and fissures, as well as the size and position of fragments, thus allowing for definitive diagnosis.
Jackson M, Kummer M, Auer J, Hagen R, Fuerst A.This prospective study describes a series of 18 olecranon fractures in 16 horses that were treated with locking compression plates (LCP). Twelve of the 18 fractures were simple (type 2), whereas six were comminuted (type 4). Six fractures were open and 12 were closed. Each horse underwent LCP osteosynthesis consisting of open reduction and application of one or two LCP. Complete fracture healing was achieved in 13 horses. Three horses had to be euthanatized: two because of severe infection and one because of a comminuted radial fracture 11 days after fixation of the olecranon fracture. Complic...
Sampson SN, Schneider RK, Gavin PR, Baszler TV, Mealey RH, Zubrod CJ, Marsh CA.To evaluate: (1) an arthroscopic technique for transection of the collateral sesamoidean ligament (CSL); and (2) the healing response using magnetic resonance (MR) and microscopic examination. Methods: Experimental study. Methods: Adult horses (n=6). Methods: Six sound horses with normal front foot radiographic and MR examinations were used. Lameness examination was performed before surgery and monthly for 12 months. Front foot radiography was performed at 180 and 360 days after surgery. Front foot MR was performed before, and at 7, 90, 180, and 360 days after surgery. Arthroscopic CSL desmoto...
Collins SN, Pollitt C, Wylie CE, Matiasek K.Laminitis poses a threat to all horses, and is widely considered as being one of the most important diseases of horses and a global equine welfare problem. The effects of laminitis lead to debilitation, development of pronounced digital pain, and great suffering in the afflicted animal. The precise pathophysiological processes that result in laminitic pain are poorly defined, and hence the delivery of effective palliative care is clinically challenging. Knowledge and understanding of pain states in other animal species may further aid the elucidation of equine laminitic pain mechanisms, guide ...
Biggi M, Dyson S.There are no data concerning the accuracy of conventional and computed or digital radiography for evaluation of the equine foot. Objective: To compare conventional film-screen and computed radiography with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detection of distal border fragments of the navicular bone; and to establish which type of fragment was more likely to be detected radiologically. Methods: Horses were included if forelimb lameness was localised to the foot and both radiography and high-field MR images had been acquired. Horses were divided into 2 groups based on acquisition of convention...
Asplin KE, Patterson-Kane JC, Sillence MN, Pollitt CC, Mc Gowan CM.Ponies with laminitis associated with insulin resistance and hyperinsulinaemia lack systemic and/or intestinal inflammatory signs, suggesting a different pathogenesis potentially reflected in differing histopathology. Objective: To describe the histological appearance and quantify morphological changes in primary and secondary epidermal lamellae (PEL and SEL) of laminitis lesions from ponies with insulin-induced laminitis. Methods: Equine hoof lamellar tissue was obtained from 4 control ponies and 5 ponies with laminitis induced following infusion of insulin (1036 ± 55 µU/ml) while maintai...
Fiske-Jackson AR, Crawford AL, Archer RM, Bolt DM, Smith RK.To describe the diagnosis and treatment of fractures of the deltoid tuberosity. Methods: Case series. Methods: Medical records (1992-2009) of 19 horses with radiographic confirmation of deltoid tuberosity fractures were reviewed. Data retrieved included signalment, clinical and diagnostic imaging findings, and treatment. Outcome was determined by telephone questionnaire of owners and referring veterinarians. Results: Most horses were markedly lame on admission and 53% had reduced protraction of the affected limb. All fractures were identified on a cranio45° medial-caudolateral oblique project...
Nagy A, Dyson S, Barr A.The transrectal ultrasonographic appearance of the lumbosacral joint was assessed in 43 horses with no history or clinical evidence of back pain or hindlimb lameness. In the majority of horses (34/43, 79.1%) the lumbosacral disc had uniform or mildly heterogeneous echogenicity. However, variation in the ultrasonographic appearance of the lumbosacral joint was also identified, including hyperechogenic regions within the lumbosacral disc with or without an acoustic shadow, and mild or moderate irregularity of the opposing surfaces of the last lumbar and the first sacral vertebral bodies. Marked ...
Holowinski M, Judy C, Saveraid T, Maranda L.Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is important in diagnosing musculoskeletal injuries in horses. However, there is still much to learn regarding the significance of lesions identified in equine MR images. Of particular importance is the clinical significance of signal change as a function of pulse sequence. We hypothesized that a resolution of tendon, ligament, and bone marrow lesions on short-tau inversion recovery (STIR) images would be associated with a return to soundness, and that a persistence of tendon and ligament lesions on only T1-weighted (T1w) gradient recalled echo (GRE) images woul...
Podadera JM, Bell RJ, Dart AJ.Two horses presented with a history of severe lameness that was localised to the area around the second phalanx (P2) of one forelimb. Radiographs of the second phalanx of both horses were unremarkable, apart from some smooth periosteal new bone production on the dorsum of P2. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a non-displaced fracture of P2 in both horses. One horse was euthanased because of a poor prognosis for racing, but the second horse was treated conservatively and salvaged for breeding. Magnetic resonance imaging is a newer imaging modality in horses and may be useful in diagnosing cas...
Murray RC, Walters J, Snart H, Dyson S, Parkin T.Results from a previous study indicated that there are specific arena surface characteristics that are associated with an increased likelihood of lameness in dressage horses. It is important to understand what modifiable arena factors lead to these detrimental surface characteristics. The aim of this study was to describe the use of training surfaces and arenas for United Kingdom dressage horses and to investigate any relationships between arena/surface variables and detrimental surface characteristics. Data from a questionnaire returned by 22.5% of all 11,363 registered members of British Dre...
Oosterlinck M, Pille F, Back W, Dewulf J, Gasthuys F.The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between fore- and hind-hoof contact area and limb loading. Data from a previous study on forelimb loading and symmetry were compared with data on hindlimb kinetics, and the fore- and hind-hoof contact area at the walk and trot was evaluated. Five sound ponies, selected for symmetrical feet, were walked and trotted over a pressure plate embedded in a custom-made runway. The hindlimb peak vertical force (PVF) and vertical impulse (VI) were found to be significantly lower than in the forelimb, whereas their high symmetry ratios (>95%) did n...
Fairburn A, Dyson S, Murray R.Osseous spurs on the dorsoproximal aspect of the third metatarsal bone (MtIII) are common, but their clinical significance is unknown. Objective: To verify the sites of insertion of the dorsal metatarsal ligament and the tendons of tibialis cranialis and fibularis tertius in order to determine if periarticular osteophytes and entheseophytes could be differentiated radiologically; and to determine the frequency of occurrence of osseous spurs on the dorsoproximal aspect of MtIII. Objective: The frequency of osseous spurs on the dorsoproximal aspect of MtIII would be higher in lame than in clinic...
Frisbie DD, Mc Ilwraith CW, Arthur RM, Blea J, Baker VA, Billinghurst RC.Biomarkers have shown some in vivo promise for the detection of musculoskeletal injuries, but further study to assess biomarker levels in clinical orthopaedic disease is required. Objective: To assess 7 serum biomarkers for the detection of musculoskeletal injuries. Methods: Two- and 3-year-old racehorses were entered into the study (n = 238). Exit criteria were lack of training for >30 days, or completion of 10 study months. Data from horses with solitary musculoskeletal injuries and completion of >2 months were analysed. Musculoskeletal injury was considered intra-articular fragmentation (IA...
Menzies-Gow NJ, Stevens K, Barr A, Camm I, Pfeiffer D, Marr CM.Data from 107 cases of pasture-associated laminitis were obtained from first opinion practices to study factors associated with severity, survival and return to ridden exercise. There were 43 mares and 64 geldings, with a median age of 11 years. Of the 107 animals, 33 were small ponies, 45 were large ponies/cobs, 17 were small horses and 12 were large horses. Ninety-seven animals were categorised as having laminitis as defined by Cripps and Eustace (1999): 76 had mild (Obel grade 1 or 2) laminitis and 31 had severe (Obel grade 3 or 4) laminitis. Forty-three animals had previously had laminitis...
Gonzalez LM, Schramme MC, Robertson ID, Thrall DE, Redding RW.Lameness originating from the metacarpo(tarso)phalangeal (MP) joint has a significant effect on the use and athletic competitiveness of a horse. The identification of the cause of lameness originating from the MP joint can be challenging, given the limitations of radiography, ultrasonography, and nuclear scintigraphy. Our purpose was to describe the injury types and incidence in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies from 40 horses with lameness attributable to the MP joint region where it was not possible to reach a clinically plausible diagnosis using other imaging modalities. Horses were ...
Orsini JA, Parsons CS, Capewell L, Smith G.This retrospective study investigated the factors associated with a poor outcome (death by euthanasia or from other causes) in horses treated for laminitis at a tertiary care hospital. Cases (n = 247) were defined as patients with laminitis that were euthanized or that died of other causes during hospitalization. Controls (n = 344) were patients with laminitis that survived to be discharged from the hospital. In the final multivariate analysis, the factors significantly associated with an increased risk for death and their respective odds ratios (OR) were as follows: Thoroughbred (OR = 1.57); ...
Young AC, Hoffmann KL, Begg AP, Major DA.We present a case of aggressive metastatic carcinoma in a horse that was initially presented for shoulder lameness. Although radiography and scintigraphy were useful for localising a lesion in the proximal humerus, subsequent development of non-specific signs of systemic disease prompted further evaluation. Haematology and blood biochemistry, urinalysis and ultrasonography were all instrumental in identifying renal involvement. A diagnosis of a peri-renal mass causing secondary renal failure prompted euthanasia of the horse because of the poor prognosis. Antemortem findings were supported by n...
Egenvall A, Lönnell C, Johnston C, Roepstorff L.Orthopaedic injury is the most common reason for lameness and wastage in sport and leisure horses. Studies on racehorses have shown differences in injury risk between trainers and training strategies. The aim was to study between riding school variation in orthopaedic health status by clinical examination and horses age, and control for change of examiner, in schools with previous high (n = 4) and low (n = 4) insurance utilisation. Methods: Horses (n = 99) at 8 riding schools were examined for conformation, movement in all gaits, standing flexion tests and palpation by two veterinary surgeons ...
Parker RA, Bladon BM, Parkin TD, Fraser BS.Increased radio-isotope uptake (IRU) in the subchondral bone of the plantaro-lateral condyle of the third metatarsus (MTIII) is a commonly reported scintigraphic finding and potential cause of lameness in UK Thoroughbred racehorses in training and has not been fully documented. Objective: To characterise lameness attributable to IRU of the subchondral bone of MTIII, compare the scintigraphic findings of these horses with a normal population and evaluate the use of scintigraphy as an indicator of prognosis. Objective: IRU will be in significantly higher in horses with subchondral bone injury an...
Dyson S, Brown V, Collins S, Murray R.Associations between degree of ossification of the cartilages of the foot and injuries to other structures of the foot have been suggested, but have not been investigated by large scale studies. Objective: To describe the frequency of grade >3 ossification of the cartilages of the foot (possibly significant ossification, PSO), mediolateral symmetry of ossification and left-right symmetry between feet; and to investigate associations between PSO and injury of either the collateral ligaments (CLs) of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint or the distal phalanx. Objective: Possibly significant os...
Kearney CM, van Weeren PR, Cornelissen BP, den Boon P, Brama PA.The flexion test is used routinely as part of lameness and prepurchase examinations. However, little is known about the mechanisms that cause a positive response to a flexion test. Objective: To determine which anatomical regions play a role in a positive outcome of a flexion test of the distal aspect of a forelimb in a nonlame horse. Methods: Eight clinically sound Dutch Warmblood horses were subjected to a standardised flexion test (force 250 N, time 60 s) inducing a consistent lameness. To discriminate between different areas of the distal aspect of a forelimb, effects of various nerve bloc...
Graham RJTY, Rosanowski SM, McILWRAITH CW.Osteochondral fragmentation of the carpus is a common cause of lameness in racehorses. Prognosis following arthroscopic removal of the fragments was reported in 1987, but little is known of recent success rates. Objective: To identify associations between the severity and location of osteochondral fragments in the carpus, and to describe the racing performance of horses pre- and post-surgery in Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses. To identify factors associated with a horse racing post-surgery. Methods: Retrospective study of clinical records (2006-2016). Methods: Surgical and racing records for ...
Janeczek M, Chrószcz A, Onar V, Henklewski R, Skalec A.Animal remains that are unearthed during archaeological excavations often provide useful information about socio-cultural context, including human habits, beliefs, and ancestral relationships. In this report, we present pathologically altered equine first and second phalanges from an 11th century specimen that was excavated at Wrocław Cathedral Island, Poland. The results of gross examination, radiography, and computed tomography, indicate osteoarthritis of the proximal interphalangeal joint, with partial ankylosis. Based on comparison with living modern horses undergoing lameness examination...
Golonka P, Kornicka-Garbowska K, Marycz K.Stem cell based therapy are now commonly applied in human and veterinary medical practice especially in orthopaedics. Mesenchymal stromal stem cells isolated from adipose tissue (ASC) are first choice option due to relatively non-invasive and safe procedure of tissue harvesting. However, ASC therapeutic potential strongly rely on patients general health condition, age and life-style. For that reason, to enhance therapeutic potential of cells, they are modified in vitro using different approaches. Previous studies have shown, that ASC treated with resveratrol, herein called SIRT+, are character...
Weil M, Litzke LF, Fritsch R.Thirty-six lameness free horses and 119 horses with lameness of the distal forelimb including the carpus were evaluated through thermography. Examination was done with an infrared thermography camera "Thermovision 470" and a specially developed analyzing software program. Temperature differences between corresponding regions of the left and right forelimb were determined and scrutinized statistically between various lameness groups. By creating temperature differences between both limbs a parameter for skin temperature was found which is independent of surrounding temperature. In lameness free...
Clegg PD, Dyson SJ, Summerhays GE, Schramme MC.This paper describes the clinical and diagnostic features of 20 cases of scapulohumeral osteoarthritis in Shetland ponies, miniature horses and falabella ponies. The history and clinical signs were similar in all the cases Radiographically they all had consistent changes which consisted predominantly of articular osteophytes and periarticular enthesiophytes. Six of the cases had radiographic evidence of dysplasia of the scapulohumeral joint, although it was uncertain whether this was a primary or a secondary finding. No specific treatment appeared to be advantageous. At follow up, six of the p...
Jackson M, Kummer M, Auer J, Hagen R, Fuerst A.This prospective study describes a series of 18 olecranon fractures in 16 horses that were treated with locking compression plates (LCP). Twelve of the 18 fractures were simple (type 2), whereas six were comminuted (type 4). Six fractures were open and 12 were closed. Each horse underwent LCP osteosynthesis consisting of open reduction and application of one or two LCP. Complete fracture healing was achieved in 13 horses. Three horses had to be euthanatized: two because of severe infection and one because of a comminuted radial fracture 11 days after fixation of the olecranon fracture. Complic...
Arnbjerg J.After a short review of previous literature about fractures of the navicular bone in horses, the symptoms and the pathological-anatomical changes of the condition are described. The most important clinical symptom is acute severe lameness without significant swellings, but with pronounced pain reaction to rotation of the coffin joint. After rest the lameness is reduced considerably, but without treatment it can persist for several years. Adherences between the deep flexor tendon and the site of the fracture and eventual damage to the coffin joint are considered to be the cause of the persistin...
Sherlock C, Mair T, Blunden T.Erosion of the palmar (flexor) aspect of the navicular bone is difficult to diagnose with conventional imaging techniques. Objective: To review the clinical, magnetic resonance (MR) and pathological features of deep erosions of the palmar aspect of the navicular bone. Methods: Cases of deep erosions of the palmar aspect of the navicular bone, diagnosed by standing low field MR imaging, were selected. Clinical details, results of diagnostic procedures, MR features and pathological findings were reviewed. Results: Deep erosions of the palmar aspect of the navicular bone were diagnosed in 16 matu...
Fubini SL, Erb HN, Freeman KP, Todhunter RJ.Between July 1, 1983 and December 31, 1990, risk factors were determined for all horses with joint disease presented to a referral center, of being discharged, of ever becoming sound, or of being alive at 3 mo follow-up. Logistic multiple-regression models were done separately for foals (< or = 4 mo), yearlings (> 4-24 mo) and racing or nonracing adult horses (> 24 mo). The breakdown in this study was 53 foals, 87 yearlings, 141 nonracing adults, and 226 racing adults. Thirty-one foals (58%), 68 yearlings (78%), 119 non-racing adults (84%), and 213 racing adults (94%) were discharged. Foals wi...
Lindholm AC, Swensson U, de Mitri N, Collinder E.The clinical effects of intra-articular betamethasone together with hyaluronan (betaM/HA) and treatment with a defocalized carbon dioxide laser on acute traumatic arthritis of the fetlock joint were assessed. The horses in these studies were selected using a thorough lameness examination, including intra-articular anaesthesia abolishing the lameness. This investigation comprised an observer-blind study, including 10 sport horses (10 joints), and a prospective study, including 180 sport horses (333 joints). In both studies, the material was divided into two groups treated with either betaM/HA o...
Bryner MF, Hoey SE, Montavon S, Fürst AE, Kümmerle JM.To determine long term outcomes of nonracing equines athletes treated for short incomplete proximal sagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx (SIPSFP1) by lag screw fixation. Methods: Retrospective study. Methods: Thirty-one horses. Methods: Medical records from horses with an SIPSFP1 (2008-2014) were reviewed. Long-term (≥12 months) outcomes were assessed with telephone interviews and clinical and radiographic examinations. Results: Warmblood was the predominant breed in cases included in the study. Among horses with long-term interview information, 27 of 31 returned to previous athletic...
Brommer H, Voermans M, Veraa S, van den Belt AJ, van der Toorn A, Ploeg M, Gröne A, Back W.Axial osteitis of the proximal sesamoid bones and desmitis of the intersesamoidean ligament has been described in Friesian horses as well as in other breeds. The objectives of this study were to review the outcome of clinical cases of this disease in Friesian horses and analyse the pathology of the bone-ligament interface. Case records of Friesian horses diagnosed with axial osteitis of the proximal sesamoid bones and desmitis of the intersesamoidean ligament in the period 2002-2012 were retrospectively evaluated. Post-mortem examination was performed on horses that were euthanized (n = 3) and...
Koblik PD, Hornof WJ, Seeherman HJ.Review of 121 bone scintigrams obtained on racing Thoroughbred horses with clinical histories indicative of forelimb lameness revealed 3 scintigraphic patterns of stress-induced trauma to the dorsal cortex of the third metacarpal bone: (1) focal, intense uptake associated with recent stress fracture; (2) regional uptake of varying intensity or a mixed pattern of uptake associated with chronic stress fracture; and (3) diffuse, mild to moderate uptake associated with periostitis (bucked shins). The latter scintigraphic pattern appeared to be an exaggerated manifestation of the normal remodeling ...
Skiöldebrand E, Heinegård D, Olofsson B, Rucklidge G, Ronéus N, Ekman S.This study evaluates how strenuous training, age and lameness influence the release of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (sf-COMP), aggrecan and collagen type II into synovial fluid in 28 (19.5-40 months) Standardbred trotters (STB), during a long-term training programme (24 months). All the horses were trained by the same trainer and were healthy on entering the training programme. Synovial fluid (sf) from the left middle carpal joint in each subject was sampled every third month. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the concentrations of sf-COMP, sf-aggrecan and sf-colla...
Schieder K, Zsoldos RR, Dippel M, Siedler C, Tichy A, Licka TF.Lameness evaluation (LE) is an important veterinary skill, but it can be a challenging task to teach. Acoustic and visual input in conjunction with acting are the three major learning channels for acquiring new information. Acting (e.g., physical self-experience) has not been reported as a didactic tool for LE; therefore, we investigated two physical self-experience techniques, imitation of lameness during LE instruction and head nod during LE. Undergraduate veterinary students ( = 78) who had not yet received any instructions for LE underwent standard instruction for LE, followed by instructi...
Davies J, Thomas C, Rizwan M, Gwenin C.The pH drop in the hindgut of the horse is caused by lactic acid-producing bacteria which are abundant when a horse's feeding regime is excessively carbohydrate rich. This drop in pH below six causes hindgut acidosis and may lead to laminitis. Lactic acid-producing bacteria and have been found to produce high amounts of L-lactate and D-lactate, respectively. Early detection of increased levels of these bacteria could allow the horse owner to tailor the horse's diet to avoid hindgut acidosis and subsequent laminitis. Therefore, 16s ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) sequences were identified a...
Vosugh D, Nazem MN, Hooshmand AR.Among the different breeds of horses, Asil horses with a five thousand year history have played an important role in human life. This study was designed as a result of the lack of information about the normal radiographic anatomy of this breed. Methods: Radiography of the distal phalanx and associated soft tissue structures of the front feet of 10 healthy pure Iranian Arabian horses was performed on lateromedial radiographic projection to determine normal radiographic morphometry of this part. There were no problems in their limbs and in their history. Results: Obtained radiograph of each fron...
Anderson JD, Galuppo LD, Barr BC, Puchalski SM, Macdonald MM, Whitcomb MB, Magdesian KG, Stover SM.To describe clinical and scintigraphic abnormalities in horses with a bone fragility disorder. Methods: Retrospective case series. Methods: 16 horses with scintigraphic evidence of multiple sites of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake (IRU). Procedures-Medical records were reviewed for information on signalment; history; clinical, clinicopathologic, and diagnostic imaging findings; and treatment. Follow-up information was obtained through telephone interviews with owners. Results: Horses ranged from 4 to 22 years old; there were 8 castrated males and 8 females. Foci of IRU most commonly invol...
Dowling BA, Dart AJ, Matthews SM.To evaluate chemical arthrodesis using sodium monoiodoacetate for treatment of degenerative joint disease of the tarsometatarsal and distal intertarsal joints. Methods: Retrospective clinical study. Methods: Horses were diagnosed with degenerative joint disease of one or more of the tarsometatarsal or distal intertarsal joints based on history, lameness examination, radiographic findings and, in some cases, response to intra-articular anaesthesia or medication. Intra-articular injections of sodium monoiodoacetate were performed using 23 gauge needles in the sedated, standing horse. Positive co...
Lillich JD, Ruggles AJ, Gabel AA, Bramlage LR, Schneider RK.Medical records of 17 horses in which a distal sesamoid bone fracture was diagnosed between 1982 and 1992 were reviewed. There were 8 Standardbreds, 6 Quarter Horses, 2 Thoroughbreds, and 1 Arabian. Mean age was 4.7 years. A forelimb was affected in 15 horses, and a hind limb was affected in 2. All horses were lame, and most were grade III/V lame at the trot. In all horses, the diagnosis was confirmed by means of radiography. Five horses were treated with stall rest alone; 5 underwent neurectomy; 4 were treated with stall rest and corrective shoeing; and 1 was treated with stall rest and exter...
Weiss DJ, Trent AM, Johnston G.Prothrombotic changes occurring in the prodromal stages of carbohydrate-induced laminitis were investigated. Hemostatic alterations were evaluated by determining platelet counts, platelet survival, activated partial thromboplastin time, one-stage prothrombin time, and monocyte procoagulant activity. Thrombosis of vessels in the hoof wall was evaluated by contrast arteriography and histologic examination. Of 5 horses, 4 became lame between 28 and 52 hours after carbohydrate administration. Mean platelet count in laminitis-affected horses was lower throughout the prodromal stages of laminitis, c...
Crawford A, O'Donnell M, Crowe O, Eliashar E, Smith RK.To report the clinical features of horses with fluid-filled masses associated with the digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS) and outcome after surgery. Methods: Case series. Methods: Horses (n=10) Methods: Medical records of horses with fluid-filled masses associated with the DFTS were reviewed and the clinical features, diagnostic methods, treatment, histopathology, and outcome reported. Results: Masses were unilateral (7 hind limb, 3 front limb) and in 8 horses were associated with lameness. In 6 horses, lameness improved by >50% with intrathecal DTFS anesthesia, whereas 2 were less positiv...
Dyson SJ.Desmitis of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon (ALDDFT) was diagnosed in 27 horses between September 1986 and December 1990. The first observed clinical sign in four horses was localised swelling in the proximal metacarpus. Twenty horses became lame suddenly during a work period and most developed swelling within 24 h of exercise. The injury was confirmed by ultrasonographic examination. Ten of 13 horses with uncomplicated desmitis of the ALDDFT resumed full work, within three to nine months of the onset of clinical signs, without recurrence of clinical signs in the perio...
Lamas LP, Edmonds J, Hodge W, Zamora-Vera L, Burford J, Coomer R, Munroe G.REASONS FOR PERFORMING THIS STUDY: Intra-articular ethanol has been described to promote distal tarsal joint ankylosis. Its use and results in clinical cases affected by osteoarthritis (OA) have not been reported. Objective: To describe and evaluate the results of treatment of distal tarsal joint OA by facilitated ankylosis stimulated by intra-articular ethanol injection. Methods: Twenty-four horses met the inclusion criteria of tarsometatarsal and centrodistal joint OA diagnosed by a positive response to intra-articular analgesia, radiographic evaluation and recurrence of lameness ≤ 4 month...
Bailey RE, Dyson SJ, Parkin TD.The aims of this study were to establish the frequency of occurrence, intensity and symmetry of focal increased radiopharmaceutical uptake in the dorsoproximal aspect of the diaphysis of the proximal phalanx; to determine if this focal increased radiopharmaceutical uptake was related to age, height, gender, breed, bodyweight, or discipline of the horse, and if there was any relationship with lameness. Scintigraphic images from 690 horses were analyzed subjectively and objectively. Age, breed, discipline, height, weight, gender, and lame limb(s) or reasons for presentation were recorded for all...
García-López JM, Kirker-Head CA.To report the clinical signs, diagnosis, management, and outcome of horses with occult sub-chondral osseous cyst-like lesions of the tarsocrural joint. Methods: Retrospective study. Methods: Twelve horses with subchondral osseous cyst-like lesions (SOCLs) in the tarsocrural joint. Methods: Information about history, examination findings, diagnostic techniques, and surgical procedures as obtained from medical records. Outcome was determined by patient re-evaluation and telephone communication with the referring veterinarian, owner, or trainer. Results: Horses were aged from 3 to 29 years. Lamen...
Minshall GJ, Wright IM.Tears of the radial head of the deep digital flexor (DDF) have not previously been documented. Objective: To describe the presentation, clinical, ultrasonographic and tenoscopic features associated with tears of the radial head of the DDF and to report the results of treatment. Objective: Tears of the radial head of the DDF cause lameness and distension of the carpal sheath of the digital flexor tendons. Removal of disrupted tissue that is extruded into the sheath can result in clinical resolution and restoration of function. Methods: Case records and diagnostic images of horses in which teari...
Wolkowski DD, McCarthy RD, Schoonover MJ, Taylor JD, Eastman TG.Evaluate effects of acellular equine liquid amnion allograft (ELAA) injected into healthy equine joints. Methods: Randomized, blinded, controlled experiment. Methods: Eight healthy adult horses. Methods: One intercarpal joint (ICJ) of each horse was randomly assigned to be injected with 1.5 ml of ELAA (treatment) while the contralateral ICJ was injected with 1.5 ml of 0.9% NaCl (control). Subjective lameness evaluation, force plate analysis, and synovial fluid analysis, including interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) analysis, were performed before (day 0) and at days 1, 3, 5, and 10. S...
van Loon JP, de Grauw JC, Brunott A, Weerts EA, van Weeren PR.Intra-articular injection of opioids provides analgesia in painful equine joints and μ-opioid receptors (MORs) have been demonstrated in equine synovial membranes. The aim of this study was to determine whether acute inflammatory conditions will lead to up-regulation of MOR in equine synovial membranes and whether anti-inflammatory treatment can prevent any such upregulation. In a two-period, blinded, placebo-controlled randomised cross-over design, lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 1.0 ng) was injected into the left or right middle carpal joint of seven healthy ponies. Arthroscopy and synovial membra...
Roquet I, Lane Easter J, Coomer RPC, Ezquerra LJ, Marsh CA, Trostle SS, Santschi EM.To describe the results of screw placement through subchondral lucencies (SCL) of the proximal radius in 8 horses. Methods: Retrospective clinical study. Methods: Horses with cubital SCL causing lameness (n=8). Methods: Medical record review and clinical follow-up. Results: Eight horses with SCL in the proximal radius causing lameness were treated with a screw placed across the lucency. The horses range in age from 1 to 20 years. In 4 of 8 horses, the lameness had been intermittently severe (apparent at the walk). Lameness was isolated to the cubital joint by intra-articular anesthesia in 5 ho...
