Arthroscopic treatment of meniscal cysts in the horse.

This study discusses a rare condition found in horses, meniscal cysts, that can be a significant cause of lameness in the animal. The researchers discuss the clinical symptoms, treatment, and outcome of this condition. They reviewed cases from two surgical practices where horses diagnosed with this condition were treated through arthroscopic cyst excision and meniscal debridement. The findings show that this surgical method could effectively resolve the symptoms, improve horse’s condition, and there was no evidence of recurring cases in the follow-up checks.

Objective of the Research

• The objective of this research was to describe symptoms, treatment methods, and the results of treating meniscal cysts in horses. Meniscal cysts are uncommon but can cause lameness in horses. The condition can be treated by arthroscopic cyst excision.

Methodology

• Researchers reviewed records of horses diagnosed with meniscal cysts and treated by cyst excision and meniscal debridement at two different surgical practices. The results were determined by continued veterinary examination and contact with the horses’ owners.

Results of the Study

• The study revealed seven cases of meniscal cysts treated with arthroscopic cyst excision and meniscal debridement. Five of the seven horses initially had lameness due to femorotibial joint pathology.
• The other two horses had meniscal cysts found incidentally during diagnostic arthroscopy for a different issue – osteochondritis dissecans of the femoral lateral trochlear ridge.
• Long-term follow-up found that five out of six horses were sound, and another horse showed improvement 11 months after the surgery.

Conclusions from the Research

• The research concludes that even though meniscal cysts are not common, they can be linked to progressive lameness in horses.
• Surgical excision of the cysts seems to be an effective treatment method that leads to resolution or at least improvement of the symptoms.
• There was no evidence of the condition reoccurring after the surgical treatment based on the follow-up medical checks.