Arthroscopic examination of the femorotibial joints of horses.

The research article describes a method for conducting an arthroscopic examination of the femorotibial joints in horses. The examination technique was found to be relatively safe and effective in a series of 20 examinations.

Technique for Arthroscopic Examination

• The researchers devised a technique to efficiently carry out an arthroscopic examination of the lateral and medial femorotibial joints of the horse, which are part of the horse’s knee. The femorotibial joint involves the contact between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone).
• The procedure begins with the creation of an entry portal. This opening is created between the middle and medial patellar ligaments while the horse is on its back and the stifle (horse’s knee) flexed.
• Being in this position makes it easier to view the intercondylar eminence of the tibia, which serves as a reference point for the procedure. The intercondylar eminence is a prominent bony ridge on the tibia, important in defining the joint structure of the knee.

Examination Procedure and Findings

• Using the intercondylar eminence as a starting point, the observers can examine nearly all parts of the joint by moving the sleeve and telescope and keeping the joint distended or swollen. This manipulation enables the observers to examine all but the most proximal and medial structures of the joints.
• In a series of 20 examinations carried out using this method, the researchers noted that iatrogenic trauma (damage caused by medical examination or treatment) was observed only once, suggesting that this approach is relatively safe. This point also emphasizes that proper, careful manipulation of the instruments is vital in preventing any harm to the horse during the examination.