Topic:Limb Deformities
Limb deformities in horses refer to abnormalities in the shape or alignment of the limbs, which can occur due to genetic factors, developmental issues, or trauma. These deformities can affect the horse's gait, performance, and overall health. Common types of limb deformities include angular limb deformities, such as valgus and varus, and flexural deformities, like contracted tendons. Diagnosis and management of limb deformities often involve clinical examination, imaging techniques, and sometimes corrective interventions. This page compiles peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and implications of limb deformities in equine health.
Surgical treatment of carpal flexural deformity in 72 horses. Carpal flexural deformities (CFD) are frequently encountered in the horse, with both congenital and acquired forms described. The success of surgical correction of CFD, both in terms of the ability to achieve a straight palmar carpal angle and the impact on future athletic performance, requires further investigation. Objective: To report the surgical management and outcome of treatment of flexural deformity of the carpus in 72 horses up to 12 months of age. Methods: Information was obtained from the medical records of horses surgically treated for CFD and through follow-up contact with owners....
Genetic parameters for the prevalence of osteochondrosis in the limb joints of South German Coldblood horses. Heritabilities were estimated for osteochondrosis (OC) in fetlock and hock joints and palmar/plantar osseous fragments in fetlock joints of South German Coldblood (SGC) horses using Residual Maximum Likelihood (REML) under a linear animal model. The analyses were based on the results of a standardized radiographic examination of 167 SGC horses with a mean age of 14 months. The heritabilities linearly estimated and transformed onto the liability scale were for OC in fetlock joints 0.16 and for OC in hock joints 0.04. Considering fetlock and hock OC together, results in a heritability of 0.17. P...
An evidence-based assessment of the biomechanical effects of the common shoeing and farriery techniques. The first aim of this article is to review the progress made in the field of distal limb biomechanics. By understanding limb biomechanics, it is then possible to review the rationale behind a few of the more common techniques that veterinarians routinely use when treating their patients and to evaluate the evidence in support of them.
Step ostectomy as a treatment for varus deformity of a metatarsophalangeal joint in a 4.5-month-old colt. A 4.5-month-old quarter horse colt was presented with severe right hind metatarsophalangeal varus, present since birth. On radiographs, it was determined that there was a 16 degree deviation with the pivot point at the distal physis of the 3rd metatarsal bone. A step ostectomy in the sagittal plane corrected the deformity. Un poulain Quarter horse âgé de 4,5 mois a été présenté pour une difformité congénitale métatarsophalangienne varus du membre postérieur droit. Une déviation de 16° par rapport au point de pivotement au niveau de la plaque de croissance distale du 3 métatarse a...
Bilateral Polydactyly in a foal. The following case report describes the diagnosis and surgery of bilateral polydactyly of unknown origin in a colt. A 7-month-old Berber colt was referred for cosmetic and curative excision of supernumerary digits. Radiographic examination revealed bilateral polydactyly and welldeveloped first carpal bones. Surgery consisted of an osteotomy of both second metacarpal bones combined with an amputation of the supernumerary digits. The follow-up at 18 months after surgery revealed a sound horse with an excellent cosmetic outcome.
Imaging diagnosis–equine mast cell tumor. Equine mast cell tumors are typically benign solitary growths of the head, neck, trunk, or limbs. When involving the limbs, these masses tend to be adjacent to joints without involving them. In radiographs there is often a well-circumscribed soft tissue mass with granular mineralization. The Arabian breed appears to be over represented. Surgical removal is usually curative. In this report, we describe the diagnosis, clinical features, and management of mast cell tumors in the rear limb of a horse.
Developmental aspects of distal limb conformation in the horse: the potential consequences of uneven feet in foals. Distal limb conformation is generally accepted to be an important item with respect to performance and soundness in mature horses, but little is known about the developmental aspects. Objective: To gain insight into the development of distal limb conformation and to assess the possible consequences of uneven feet in foals. Methods: Conformation of the distal front limbs of 23 Warmblood foals was scored visually and measured using radiographs, at ages 27 and 55 weeks. At the same ages, pressure measurements were made under both front feet. Results: At both ages the hoof-pastern axis was broken-...
Uneven feet in a foal may develop as a consequence of lateral grazing behaviour induced by conformational traits. Conformational traits are important in breeding, since they may be indicative for performance ability and susceptibility to injuries. Objective: To study whether certain desired conformational traits of foals are related to lateralised behaviour while foraging and to the development of uneven feet. Methods: Twenty-four Warmblood foals, born and raised at the same location, were studied for a year. Foraging behaviour was observed by means of weekly 10 min scan-sampling for 8 h. A preference test (PT) was developed to serve as a standardised tool to determine laterality. The foals were evaluated...
Genetic correlations between performance traits and radiographic findings in the limbs of German Warmblood riding horses. 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...
Deep digital flexor tendon shortening as a treatment for distal interphalangeal joint hyperextension in a 2-year-old mare. Shortening of the deep digital flexor tendon was performed by tenotomy, overlapping and anastomosis. The procedure was performed on a two-year-old Quarter Horse Mare with distal interphalangeal joint hyperextension with subluxation and metatarsophalangeal joint hyperextension. These problems originated from damage to the digital flexor tendons, presumably due to previous distal limb trauma. The procedure markedly improved the mare's level of comfort, degree of ambulation and limb conformation. Two years following surgery the mare was comfortable at pasture.
Genetic correlations between conformation traits and radiographic findings in the limbs of German Warmblood riding horses. Studbook inspection (SBI) data of 20 768 German Warmblood mares and radiography results (RR) data of 5102 Hanoverian Warmblood horses were used for genetic correlation analyses. The scores on a scale from 0 to 10 were given for conformation and basic quality of gaits, resulting in 14 SBI traits which were used for the correlation analyses. The radiographic findings considered included osseous fragments in fetlock (OFF) and hock joints (OFH), deforming arthropathy in hock joints (DAH) and distinct radiographic findings in the navicular bones (DNB) which were analyzed as binary traits, and radio...
Endothelial cell hypertrophy is associated with microvascular occlusion in horse wounds. Wound repair in horse limbs is often complicated by excessive fibroplasia and scarring. Occlusion of the microvessels populating the granulation tissue appears to be involved in the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix during the repair of limb wounds. This study aimed to determine whether endothelial cell hypertrophy or hyperplasia, or both, contribute to microvascular occlusion and whether the pericyte is involved in this anomaly. We created 5 wounds, each 2.5 x 2.5 cm, on both forelimbs and on the body of 6 horses. One limb was bandaged to stimulate excessive wound fibroplasia. We...
Compensation for changes in hoof conformation between shoeing sessions through the adaptation of angular kinematics of the distal segments of the limbs of horses. To determine the mechanism that enables horses to partially counteract the shift of the center of pressure under the hoof induced by changes in hoof morphology attributable to growth and wear during a shoeing interval. Methods: 18 clinically sound Warmblood horses. Methods: Horses were evaluated 2 days and 8 weeks after shoeing during trotting on a track containing pressure-force measuring plates and by use of a synchronous infrared gait analysis system set at a frequency of 240 Hz. All feet were trimmed toward straight alignment of the proximal, middle, and distal phalanges and shod with stan...
Evaluation of a balloon constant rate infusion system for treatment of septic arthritis, septic tenosynovitis, and contaminated synovial wounds: 23 cases (2002-2005). OBJECTIVE-To determine clinical findings and outcome in horses treated by means of a balloon constant rate infusion system. DESIGN-Retrospective case series. ANIMALS-23 horses. PROCEDURES-Medical records of horses examined at The Ohio State University veterinary teaching hospital from 2002 to 2005 that had septic arthritis, septic tenosynovitis, or penetration of a synovial structure and in which treatment involved a balloon constant rate infusion system were searched. Information pertaining to signalment, history, physical examination findings, clinicopathologic data, treatment, and duration ...
[Mini-invasive distraction technique for treatment of severe ankle and foot deformities secondary to ischemic contracture of the leg]. To explore the Ilizarov mini-invasive distraction technique for the treatment of severer ankle and foot deformities secondary to ischemic contracture of the leg. Methods: Based on the tension-stress low of Ilizarov, a serial of adjustable three dimensions external distractive instrument was developed in our department. From April 2002 to March 2004, 8 patients with ankle and foot deformities secondary to ischemic contracture of the leg induced by trauma and fracture were treated with the distractive instrument. Of them, 4 patient were male and 4 female, aged from 13 to 31 years with an average...
Shoeing sound warmblood horses with a rolled toe optimises hoof-unrollment and lowers peak loading during breakover. Overload injuries in sport horses commonly occur; shoeing techniques are believed to be important in prevention of these injuries, but there is a paucity of scientific information identifying the potential connection. Objective: To test a horseshoe with a modified rolled toe designed to ease the process of breakover and decrease loading of lesion-prone structures of the distal limb. Methods: Twenty clinically sound Warmblood horses trotted over a track containing a pressure/force measuring system and 6 infrared cameras. The horses were measured with 2 types of shoes, standard flat shoes and sh...
Management of hydrops amnion in a mare resulting in birth of a live foal. A 19-year-old Thoroughbred mare was evaluated at 265 days of gestation with a markedly distended abdomen and edema of the ventral portion of the abdomen. Results: The uterus was distended over the pelvic rim, making transrectal palpation of the fetus impossible. Transabdominal ultrasonography revealed excessive amounts of fetal fluid. Results of analysis of fluid obtained via amnio- and allantocentesis confirmed that the amniotic cavity was large. Results: The mare was monitored for signs of weakness of the prepubic tendon and abdominal wall. The fetus and placenta were monitored for signs of ...
Prevalence of osseous fragments in distal and proximal interphalangeal, metacarpo- and metatarsophalangeal and tarsocrural joints of Hanoverian Warmblood horses. The prevalence of osseous fragments in different limb joints was analysed in 3749 young Warmblood riding horses, which were pre-selected for sale at auction from 1991 to 1998 by the Association of Hanoverian Warmblood Breeders (Verband hannoverscher Warmblutzüchter e.V.) in Verden (Aller), Germany. The evaluation of these horses was based on a standardized radiological examination, including the distal interphalangeal (DIJ), the proximal interphalangeal (PIJ), the metacarpo- and metatarsophalangeal (MC/MTJ) and the tarsocrural joints (TCJ). In 32% of all horses at least one osseous fragment w...
Estimation of genetic parameters for the prevalence of osseous fragments in limb joints of Hanoverian Warmblood horses. Genetic parameters were estimated for the prevalence of osseous fragments in distal (DIJ) and proximal interphalangeal (PIJ), fetlock (FJ) and hock joints (HJ) of Hanoverian Warmblood horses by using residual maximum likelihood (REML) with linear animal models. The analyses were based on the results of 10 standardized radiographs of all four limbs of 3725 young riding horses selected for sale at auction. Transformation factors onto the underlying liability scale were verified by a simulation study. The heritability estimates of osseous fragments on the liability scale were in the range of h2 =...
Functional specialisation of pelvic limb anatomy in horses (Equus caballus). We provide quantitative anatomical data on the muscle-tendon units of the equine pelvic limb. Specifically, we recorded muscle mass, fascicle length, pennation angle, tendon mass and tendon rest length. Physiological cross sectional area was then determined and maximum isometric force estimated. There was proximal-to-distal reduction in muscle volume and fascicle length. Proximal limb tendons were few and, where present, were relatively short. By contrast, distal limb tendons were numerous and long in comparison to mean muscle fascicle length, increasing potential for elastic energy storage. W...
Assessment of the welfare of working horses, mules and donkeys, using health and behaviour parameters. Working animals provide an essential transport resource in developing countries worldwide. Many of these animals are owned by poor people and work in harsh environments, so their welfare is a cause for concern. A protocol was developed to assess the welfare of working horses, mules and donkeys in urban and peri-urban areas, using direct observation of health and behaviour parameters. In this study, 4903 animals used for draught, pack and ridden work in Afghanistan, Egypt, India, Jordan and Pakistan were assessed between December 2002 and April 2003. The data showed that donkeys were more likel...
Progressive swelling, hyperkeratosis, and fibrosis of distal limbs in Clydesdales, Shires, and Belgian draft horses, suggestive of primary lymphedema. A condition characterized by progressive swelling, hyperkeratosis, and fibrosis of the distal limbs has been recognized in Shire, Clydesdale, and Belgian draft horses. This chronic progressive disease starts at an early age, progresses throughout the life of the horse, and often ends in disfigurement and disability of the limbs that inevitably leads to the horse's premature death. This study was undertaken to better characterize this disease. Results: Six affected horses were donated for diagnostic workup. A detailed clinical, radiologic, gross, and histologic description is given in this repo...
A lag-screw technique for bridging of the medial aspect of the distal tibial physis in horses. A lag-screw technique for transphyseal bridging of the medial aspect of the distal tibial physis in foals with tarsal valgus deformities and results of the technique in 11 foals (6 with bilateral tarsal valgus deformities and 5 with unilateral tarsal valgus deformities) are described. Briefly, horses were anesthetized, and a single stab incision was made through the skin to the underlying bone over the most distal aspect of the medial malleolus. A 20-gauge needle was placed in the incision to guide screw placement, and a lag screw was inserted parallel to the medial cortex of the tibia under r...
Effect of heel elevation on forelimb conformation in horses. To determine the conformational changes in the distal forelimb of horses following heel elevation of 15 degrees and greater. An experimental study with repeated, within-horse measurements. Methods: Five clinically normal, mixed-breed horses were used to determine distal forelimb conformation following heel elevation from 0 to 45 degrees in 15 degree increments. Data were also compared to conformation of the limb in a Kimzey splint. Conformation was determined using lateral to medial radiographic projections. Conformation parameters assessed included measurement of apparent lengths of digital f...
Skeletal atavism in a miniature horse. An 8-month-old miniature horse filly was presented for evaluation of severe rotational and angular limb deformities of the thoracic and pelvic limbs. On radiographic examination, complete ulnas and fibulas were identified. These findings are consistent with a condition previously described as a form of atavism. The term atavism is used to describe the reappearance of a trait or character that was seen in all earlier evolutionary specimens of a particular species, but has not been seen in recent ancestors. The atavistic traits of complete ulnas and fibulas have previously been described in Wels...
Thyroid hyperplasia and musculoskeletal deformity in a standardbred filly in Ontario. Thyroid hyperplasia and musculoskeletal deformity, described in foals in western Canada, has not been recognized as a common cause of neonatal foal mortality in Ontario. A case is reported from Ontario, with clinical and histopathological findings consistent with the syndrome described in western Canada. Résumé — Hyperplasie thyroïdienne et déformation musculosquelettique chez une pouliche Standardbred. L’hyperplasie de la thyroïde et la déformation musculosquelettique, décrites chez les poulains dans l’ouest du Canada, n’a pas été reconnue comme cause fréquente de mortalité...
Foot management in the foal and weanling. Foot management and hoof care of foals, weanlings, and yearlings tends to be considered a specialist job. Many farriers and veterinary surgeons have little exposure to young and growing stock. Nevertheless, a variety of angular and flexural limb deformities can benefit from simple podiatry techniques, which can be performed provided that a few basic rules are followed. The combined skills of the farrier and veterinary surgeon offer many young horses with angular or flexural limb deformities a chance of a future athletic career.
Healing characteristics of deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy within the digital sheath of horses. To describe the healing characteristics of deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy within the digital sheath. Methods: Experimental study. Methods: Five mature horses. Methods: Right thoracic limb, deep digital flexor tenorrhaphy was performed within the digital sheath. Limbs were cast in partial flexion using a short limb cast for 6 weeks. Next, extended heel shoes were used for limb support for 14 weeks. Healing was evaluated by sequential ultrasonographic examinations, and limb use was evaluated by force plate analysis. At 26 weeks, mechanical strength and morphologic characteristics of the repair ...
Effect of hemi-circumferential periosteal transection and elevation in foals with experimentally induced angular limb deformities. To evaluate the effect of hemi-circumferential periosteal transection and elevation (HCPTE) in foals with, experimentally induced angular limb deformities. Methods: Prospective study. Methods: 10 healthy foals. Methods: When foals were 30 days old, transphyseal bridge implants were placed on the lateral aspects of both distal radial physes. At 90 days of age (or when 15 degrees of angulation had developed), implants were removed, and HCPTE was performed on 1 limb. Foals were confined in small pens after surgery; the front feet of the foals were rasped weekly to maintain medial-to-lateral hoof ...