Arthroscopic removal of a fragment from an intercondylar eminence fracture of the tibia in a two-year-old horse.

The research chronicles the successful treatment of a 2-year-old horse with an intercondylar eminence fracture of the tibia in its left hind limb. This was achieved through an arthroscopic procedure that provided critical diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic details, allowing for the removal of the fracture fragment and aiding notable recovery and resumption of racing activities post-surgery.

Introduction

• The research focused on a 2-year-old Standardbred colt presenting with severe lameness in its left hind limb.
• This was associated with a marked swelling of the left femoropatellar and femorotibial joints, indicating a potential internal issue.

Diagnosis

• To determine the cause of the lameness, a radiographic examination of the left stifle (equivalent of a human’s knee) was carried out. This revealed a complete fracture of the medial tubercle of the intercondylar eminence of the tibia.
• This fracture was contributing to the horse’s inability to move effectively and causing observable discomfort.

Treatment Approach

• The veterinarians utilized arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint.
• Arthroscopy offered simultaneous diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic data to guide the treatment process.
• The medial compartment of the femorotibial joint was accessed through a cranial approach, followed by manipulation of the unstable medial tubercle.
• The fracture fragment was successfully extracted during the procedure. However, approximately half of the cranial cruciate ligament at its insertion on the intercondylar eminence was compromised, indicating underlying damage.

Therapeutic Outcomes

• Fourteen months following the procedure, the horse was not only free from lameness but had also been able to train and participate in racing without any impediment.
• This indicates the effectiveness of the arthroscopic technique in treating such potentially incapacitating conditions with a positive long-term outcome.
• The research concluded by emphasizing the importance of accurate evaluation of intra-articular soft-tissue structures of the stifle for optimal recovery and future athletic performance, especially as ligamentous and/or meniscal injuries often determine recovery potential.