FREE SHIPPING over $40
OVER 9000 FIVE-STAR REVIEWS
5% OFF ALL SUBSCRIPTIONS
100% HAPPINESS GUARANTEE
Analyze Diet
0
Home / Equine Research Bank / Animals (Basel) / Follow-Up Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Sagittal Groove Dise...
Animals : an open access journal from MDPI2023; 14(1); doi: 10.3390/ani14010034

Follow-Up Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Sagittal Groove Disease of the Equine Proximal Phalanx Using a Classification System in 29 Non-Racing Sports Horses.

Abstract: Evolution of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in horses with sagittal groove disease (SGD) of the proximal phalanx is relatively sparsely described. This retrospective, descriptive, longitudinal study describes the findings of sequential low-field MRI fetlock examinations in horses with SGD of the proximal phalanx using a classification system. Twenty-nine horses were included, predominantly warmbloods used for show jumping (79%). For 29 limbs re-examined during the initial rehabilitation period, classification remained constant (n = 18), increased (n = 2), decreased (n = 7), and fluctuated (n = 2). Notably, two limbs with initial classification 4b (bone oedema-like signal with subchondral microfissure) and one with 4c (bone oedema-like signal with subchondral demineralisation) progressed to classification 5 (incomplete macrofissure/fracture), highlighting their potential as prodromal or imminent fissure pathology. Following conservative (n = 28) and surgical (n = 1) treatment, 86% of the horses re-entered full training and competition with a mean ± sd recovery time of 9.4 ± 4.4 months. In total, 20% of horses in the study subsequently presented for repeat MRI due to recurrent lameness after resuming full work, with classification that was the same (n = 2), increased (n = 2), or decreased (n = 2) compared with the last scan. This study underscores the variability in progression of SGD MRI findings, emphasising the need for further larger-scale research into patterns of progression.
Get Full Text
Publication Date: 2023-12-21 PubMed ID: 38200766PubMed Central: PMC10778323DOI: 10.3390/ani14010034Google Scholar: Lookup
The Equine Research Bank provides access to a large database of publicly available scientific literature. Inclusion in the Research Bank does not imply endorsement of study methods or findings by Mad Barn.
LinkedInCopy
  • Journal Article

Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

This research monitored the progress of sagittal groove disease (SGD) in non-racing sports horses, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and a classification system. The study also examined the animals’ recuperation period following surgical or conservative treatment and the rate of relapse.

Research Objective

  • The main objective of this study was to track the development of sagittal groove disease in the proximal phalanx of non-racing sports horses. The researchers aimed to accomplish this objective by using a classification system and magnetic resonance imaging tests.

Methodology

  • The researchers applied a longitudinal research design for their study, and the sample size consisted of 29 non-racing sports horses primarily used for show jumping. These horses demonstrated SGD of the proximal phalanx affected limb(s).
  • A series of low-field MRI fetlock examinations were carried out during the horses’ rehabilitation period.
  • A classification system was used to categorize the MRI findings. The categories were constant (no change from previous classification), increased, decreased, or fluctuated.

Key Findings

  • A total of 29 limbs were re-examined. The classification remained consistent for 18 limbs, increased for 2, decreased for 7, and fluctuated for 2.
  • Two limbs that were initially classified as 4b (bone oedema-like signal with subchondral microfissure) and one limb classified as 4c (bone oedema-like signal with subchondral demineralisation) progressed to the classification 5 (incomplete macrofissure/fracture). These findings indicate that the conditions can progress to more severe forms if not addressed.
  • 86% of the horses resumed full training and competition post-treatment (either conservative or surgical). This recuperation process took, on average, 9.4 months.
  • 20% of the horses in the study presented for a repeat MRI due to recurring lameness after returning to full work. The classification during these repeat scans was the same, increased, or decreased compared to their previous MRI results.

Conclusion

  • This study emphasizes the unpredictable progression of SGD evident in MRIs, necessitating more expansive research into the patterns of this progression. The variation in the diseases evolution, recurrence after treatment, and the notable number of horses that were able to return to their pre-disease activities highlight the complexities surrounding diagnosis and treatment of SGD.

Cite This Article

APA
Faulkner JE, Joostens Z, Broeckx BJG, Hauspie S, Mariën T, Vanderperren K. (2023). Follow-Up Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Sagittal Groove Disease of the Equine Proximal Phalanx Using a Classification System in 29 Non-Racing Sports Horses. Animals (Basel), 14(1). https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14010034

Publication

Animals : an open access journal from MDPI
ISSN: 2076-2615
NlmUniqueID: 101635614
Country: Switzerland
Language: English
Volume: 14
Issue: 1

Researcher Affiliations

Faulkner, Josephine E
  • Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopaedics, Rehabilitation, and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
Joostens, Zoë
  • Equitom Equine Clinic, Paalstraat 8, 3560 Lummen, Belgium.
Broeckx, Bart J G
  • Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
Hauspie, Stijn
  • Equitom Equine Clinic, Paalstraat 8, 3560 Lummen, Belgium.
Mariën, Tom
  • Equitom Equine Clinic, Paalstraat 8, 3560 Lummen, Belgium.
Vanderperren, Katrien
  • Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopaedics, Rehabilitation, and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.

Conflict of Interest Statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References

This article includes 35 references
  1. Brünisholz HP, Hagen R, Fürst AE, Kuemmerle JM. Radiographic and Computed Tomographic Configuration of Incomplete Proximal Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx in Horses Not Used for Racing. Vet. Surg. 2015;44:809–815.
    doi: 10.1111/vsu.12364pubmed: 26197984google scholar: lookup
  2. Gold SJ, Werpy NM, Gutierrez-Nibeyro SD. Injuries of the Sagittal Groove of the Proximal Phalanx in Warmblood Horses Detected With Low-Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging: 19 Cases (2007–2016). Vet. Radiol. Ultrasound 2017;58:344–353.
    doi: 10.1111/vru.12488pubmed: 28281306google scholar: lookup
  3. Mizobe F, Nomura M, Ueno T, Yamada K. Bone Marrow Oedema-Type Signal in the Proximal Phalanx of Thoroughbred Racehorses. J. Vet. Med. Sci. 2019;81:593–597.
    doi: 10.1292/jvms.18-0530pmc: PMC6483912pubmed: 30828037google scholar: lookup
  4. Lipreri G, Bladon BM, Giorio ME, Singer ER. Conservative versus Surgical Treatment of 21 Sports Horses with Osseous Trauma in the Proximal Phalangeal Sagittal Groove Diagnosed by Low-Field MRI. Vet. Surg. 2018;47:908–915.
    doi: 10.1111/vsu.12936pmc: PMC6690071pubmed: 30216476google scholar: lookup
  5. Dyson S, Nagy A, Murray R. Clinical and Diagnostic Imaging Findings in Horses with Subchondral Bone Trauma of the Sagittal Groove of the Proximal Phalanx. Vet. Radiol. Ultrasound 2011;52:596–604.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1740-8261.2011.01852.xpubmed: 21831247google scholar: lookup
  6. Powell SE. Low-Field Standing Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings of the Metacarpo/Metatarsophalangeal Joint of Racing Thoroughbreds with Lameness Localised to the Region: A Retrospective Study of 131 Horses. Equine Vet. J. 2012;44:169–177.
    doi: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2011.00389.xpubmed: 21696431google scholar: lookup
  7. Ramzan PHL, Powell SE. Clinical and Imaging Features of Suspected Prodromal Fracture of the Proximal Phalanx in Three Thoroughbred Racehorses. Equine Vet. J. 2010;42:164–169.
    doi: 10.2746/042516409X478695pubmed: 20156254google scholar: lookup
  8. Noble P, Singer ER, Jeffery NS. Does Subchondral Bone of the Equine Proximal Phalanx Adapt to Race Training?. J. Anat. 2016;229:104–113.
    doi: 10.1111/joa.12478pmc: PMC5341590pubmed: 27075139google scholar: lookup
  9. Singer E, Garcia T, Stover S. How Does Bone Strain Vary between the Third Metacarpal and the Proximal Phalangeal Bones of the Equine Distal Limb?. J. Biomech. 2021;123:110455.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110455pubmed: 34004392google scholar: lookup
  10. Smith MRW, Wright IM. Are There Radiologically Identifiable Prodromal Changes in Thoroughbred Racehorses with Parasagittal Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx?. Equine Vet. J. 2014;46:88–91.
    doi: 10.1111/evj.12093pubmed: 23663185google scholar: lookup
  11. Lin ST, Foote AK, Bolas NM, Peter VG, Pokora R, Patrick H, Sargan DR, Murray RC. Three-Dimensional Imaging and Histopathological Features of Third Metacarpal/Tarsal Parasagittal Groove and Proximal Phalanx Sagittal Groove Fissures in Thoroughbred Horses. Animals 2023;13:2912.
    doi: 10.3390/ani13182912pmc: PMC10525482pubmed: 37760312google scholar: lookup
  12. Powell S. Pathology: The Fetlock Region. In: Murray R., editor. Equine MRI. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.; Chichester, UK: 2011. pp. 315–359.
  13. Kuemmerle JM, Auer JA, Rademacher N, Lischer CJ, Bettschart-Wolfensberger R, Fürst AE. Short Incomplete Sagittal Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx in Ten Horses Not Used for Racing. Vet. Surg. 2008;37:193–200.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1532-950X.2007.00359.xpubmed: 18251814google scholar: lookup
  14. Curtiss AL, Ortved KF, Dallap-Schaer B, Gouzeev S, Stefanovski D, Richardson DW, Wulster KB. Validation of Standing Cone Beam Computed Tomography for Diagnosing Subchondral Fetlock Pathology in the Thoroughbred Racehorse. Equine Vet. J. 2021;53:510–523.
    doi: 10.1111/evj.13414pubmed: 33368443google scholar: lookup
  15. Smith MRW, Wright IM. Radiographic Configuration and Healing of 121 Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx in 120 Thoroughbred Racehorses (2007–2011). Equine Vet. J. 2014;46:81–87.
    doi: 10.1111/evj.12094pubmed: 23663221google scholar: lookup
  16. Markel MD, Richardson DW. Noncomminuted Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx in 69 Horses. J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 1985;186:573–579.
    pubmed: 3988589
  17. Holcombe S, Schneider R, Bramlage L, Gabel A, Bertone A, Beard W. Lag Screw Fixation of Noncomminuted Sagittal Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx in Racehorses: 59 Cases (1973–1991). J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 1995;206:1195–1199.
    pubmed: 7768743
  18. Olive J, D’anjou MA, Alexander K, Laverty S, Theoret C. Comparison of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Computed Tomography, and Radiography for Assessment of Noncartilaginous Changes in Equine Metacarpophalangeal Osteoarthritis. Vet. Radiol. Ultrasound 2010;51:267–279.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1740-8261.2009.01653.xpubmed: 20469548google scholar: lookup
  19. Bryner MF, Hoey SE, Montavon S, Fürst AE, Kümmerle JM. Long-Term Clinical and Radiographic Results after Lag Screw Ostheosynthesis of Short Incomplete Proximal Sagittal Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx in Horses Not Used for Racing. Vet. Surg. 2020;49:88–95.
    doi: 10.1111/vsu.13314pubmed: 31433505google scholar: lookup
  20. Findley JA, O’Neill HD, Bladon BM. Outcome Following Repair of 63 Sagittal Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx in UK Thoroughbreds Using Either a Triangular or Linear Screw Configuration. Equine Vet. J. 2021;53:524–529.
    doi: 10.1111/evj.13304pubmed: 32525243google scholar: lookup
  21. Tetens J, Ross M, Lloyd J. Comparison of Racing Performance before and after Treatment of Incomplete, Midsagittal Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx in Standardbreds: 49 Cases (1986–1992). J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 1997;210:82–86.
    pubmed: 8977654
  22. Ellis DR, Simpson DJ, Greenwood RES, Crowhurst JS. Observations and Management of Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx in Young Thoroughbreds. Equine Vet. J. 1987;19:43–49.
    doi: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1987.tb02579.xpubmed: 3691459google scholar: lookup
  23. Fredericson M, Bergman AG, Hoffman KL, Dillingham MS. Tibial Stress Reaction in Runners Correlation of Clinical Symptoms and Scintigraphy with a New Magnetic Resonance Imaging Grading System. Am. J. Sports Med. 1995;23:472–481.
    doi: 10.1177/036354659502300418pubmed: 7573660google scholar: lookup
  24. Kijowski R, Choi J, Shinki K, Del Rio AM, De Smet A. Validation of MRI Classification System for Tibial Stress Injuries. Am. J. Roentgenol. 2012;198:878–884.
    doi: 10.2214/AJR.11.6826pubmed: 22451555google scholar: lookup
  25. Olive J, Serraud N, Vila T, Germain JP. Metacarpophalangeal Joint Injury Patterns on Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Comparison in Racing Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds. Vet. Radiol. Ultrasound 2017;58:588–597.
    doi: 10.1111/vru.12512pubmed: 28516447google scholar: lookup
  26. Audigie F, Moiroud C, Bertoni L, Jacquet-Guibon S, Beaumont A, Tallaj A, Denoix J-M, Crevier-Denoix N. Bone Marrow Edema like Changes Due to a Rest Period in the Fore Fetlocks of Steeplechasers; Proceedings of the IVRA 19th Meeting—Oral Presentations Abstracts; Dublin, Ireland. 18–23 June 2023; p. 59.
  27. Murray RC, Blunden TS, Schramme MC, Dyson SJ. How Does Magnetic Resonance Imaging Represent Histologic Findings in the Equine Digit?. Vet. Radiol. Ultrasound 2006;47:17–31.
    doi: 10.1111/j.1740-8261.2005.00101.xpubmed: 16429981google scholar: lookup
  28. Clayton HM, Sha D, Stick J, Elvin N. 3D Kinematics of the Equine Metacarpophalangeal Joint at Walk and Trot. Vet. Comp. Orthop. Traumatol. 2007;20:86–91.
    doi: 10.1160/VCOT-07-01-0011pubmed: 17546207google scholar: lookup
  29. Hodson E, Clayton HM, Lanovaz JL. The Forelimb in Walking Horses: 1. Kinematics and Ground Reaction Forces. Equine Vet. J. 2000;32:287–294.
    doi: 10.2746/042516400777032237pubmed: 10952376google scholar: lookup
  30. O’Hare LMS, Cox PG, Jeffery N, Singer ER. Finite Element Analysis of Stress in the Equine Proximal Phalanx. Equine Vet. J. 2013;45:273–277.
    doi: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2012.00635.xpubmed: 22943561google scholar: lookup
  31. Brama PAJ, Karssenberg D, Barneveld A, Van Weeren PR. Contact Areas and Pressure Distribution on the Proximal Articular Surface of the Proximal Phalanx under Sagittal Plane Loading. Equine Vet. J. 2001;33:26–32.
    doi: 10.2746/042516401776767377pubmed: 11191606google scholar: lookup
  32. Singer E, Garcia T, Stover S. Hoof Position during Limb Loading Affects Dorsoproximal Bone Strains on the Equine Proximal Phalanx. J. Biomech. 2015;48:1930–1936.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2015.04.014pubmed: 26003484google scholar: lookup
  33. Singer E, Garcia T, Stover S. How Do Metacarpophalangeal Joint Extension, Collateromotion and Axial Rotation Influence Dorsal Surface Strains of the Equine Proximal Phalanx at Different Loads in Vitro?. J. Biomech. 2013;46:738–744.
    doi: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2012.11.028pubmed: 23246042google scholar: lookup
  34. Olive J, Mair TS, Charles B. Use of Standing Low-Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Diagnose Middle Phalanx Bone Marrow Lesions in Horses. Equine Vet. Educ. 2009;21:116–123.
    doi: 10.2746/095777309X383612google scholar: lookup
  35. Pownder SL, Koff MF, Shah PH, Fortier LA, Potter HG. Magnetic Resonance Imaging of an Equine Fracture Model Containing Stainless Steel Metal Implants. Equine Vet. J. 2016;48:321–325.
    doi: 10.1111/evj.12424pubmed: 25627908google scholar: lookup
Subscribe to our newsletter
Join 99,357 horse owners like you who receive our email updates on horse health and nutrition.