Arthroscopic treatment of fractures of the lateral malleolus of the tibia: 26 cases.

The study presents an evaluation of a minimally invasive arthroscopic technique for removing fractures from the lateral malleolus of the tibia in horses. The findings reveal that the procedure has low complications, short hospitalization periods, and most horses can return to their previous use after recovery.

Study Objectives and Methods

• The objective of this research was to test the effectiveness and feasibility of using a minimally invasive arthroscopic technique to remove fractures from the tibia’s lateral malleolus contained in horses. This technique offers a thorough examination of the tarsocrural joint and enables the removal of distant fragmented parts and disrupted short collateral ligaments.
• The researchers reviewed the case records of all horses that underwent this procedure and were admitted to a referral hospital. This study’s design was retrospective, utilizing data from past cases to evaluate the effectiveness of the arthroscopic technique.
• Follow-up information was collected through the analysis of race records and telephone questionnaires to assess the horses’ condition after the surgery.

Study Results

• The arthroscopic technique successfully removed fractures in all analyzed cases, following the dissection from the short lateral collateral ligaments.
• There were only significant post-operative complications in one horse, indicating that this technique is associated with low patient morbidity.
• Most horses recovered well from the surgery and required only short periods of hospitalization. Of the 22 horses with long-term follow-up, 18 went back to their previous use.

Study Conclusions

• Although the arthroscopic removal technique is technically demanding, research indicates it can be implemented with minimal complications. Coupled with shorter durations of hospitalization and low patient morbidity, these positive outcomes make it an advantageous choice for treating fractures of the lateral malleolus of the tibia in horses.
• In conclusion, the advantages of the arthroscopic removal far outweigh those of the conventional arthrotomy, positioning this as the technique of choice for such injuries.