Arthroscopic surgery for the treatment of osteochondrosis in the equine shoulder joint.

This research study explores the use of arthroscopic surgery for treating osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) and subchondral cyst-like lesions in horses. Post-procedure, all horses showed a decrease in lameness with majority returning to full health, despite some complications.

Objective of the Research

This paper aims at investigating the efficacy of arthroscopic surgery in treating osteochondrosis or OCD—a joint condition in horses where the cartilage and subchondral bone in the shoulder joint are damaged. The authors also address the creation and operation of two portals required for the surgery and the tools required for it.

Research Methodology

• The research was conducted on 11 horses suffering from osteochondrosis. These horses had a total of 13 shoulders affected by OCD and subchondral cyst-like lesions.
• All affected shoulders were treated through arthroscopic surgery using curettage (scrapping of the bone or other surface) and lavage (washing out of an organ).
• The surgery involved the creation of two openings or portals—one for the arthroscope to visualise the damage and the other for inserting surgical instruments.
• Different hand instruments such as a probe, Ferris-Smith rongeurs (a type of surgical instrument), and small, large, right-angled curettes were used to remove the lesions.
• Motorized equipment was also used to expedite the process.

Results of the Study

• Post-surgery, all 11 horses showed a decrease in lameness or difficulty in movement.
• Out of these, 9 horses were found to be sound post-surgery, and 5 amongst these were athletically sound, i.e., capable of performing at athletic levels.
• The recovery was observed over a period of 5 to 20 months.

Complications and Conclusions

• Despite the success of the surgical intervention, some complications were observed. These included the development of subchondral cyst-like lesions and signs of degenerative joint disease.
• The study concluded that arthroscopic surgery of the equine shoulder is a viable treatment for horses with OCD or subchondral cyst-like lesions. However, potential complications such as development of new lesions or degenerative joint disease need to be managed effectively post-surgery.