Lag screw fixation of an extensor process fracture in a foal with flexural deformity.

This study involves a case where a young horse was successfully treated for a specific type of bone fracture and related soft tissue deformity. The treatment incorporated surgical methods aimed at internal fixation of the fracture and the modification of certain ligaments.

Objective of the Research

• The main goal of this study was to utilize and evaluate the effects of an internal fixation method in handling a type IV fracture of the extensor process of the 3rd phalanx in a young colt. Additionally, the research focused on the application of an inferior check ligament desmotomy as a remedy to a stage I flexural deformity of the distal interphalangeal joint in the same colt.

Description of the Case

• The case that was reviewed in this study involved a 4-month-old colt who was diagnosed with a stage I flexural deformity of the distal interphalangeal joint and a type IV nondisplaced fracture of the extensor process of the 3rd phalanx.
• The terms in this context refer to certain anatomical areas of the horse. The flexural deformity reflects an abnormal bending or curvature. In this case, it was located at the distal interphalangeal joint, which is a joint located in the hoof of the horse.
• The extensor process of the 3rd phalanx is a specific part of the bone structure within the horse’s hoof.

Surgical Treatment

• It was decided by the researchers that the best course of action for treatment would involve a two-step surgical intervention to treat both the fracture and the flexural deformity.
• Firstly, an inferior check ligament desmotomy was performed. This surgical procedure involves cutting a ligament in the lower portion of the leg to correct the flexural deformity. The inferior check ligament plays a role in the horse’s ability to extend its hoof, and by modifying it, they were aiming to correct the deformation.
• Secondly, the type IV fracture of the extensor process of the 3rd phalanx was treated with internal fixation. This involves the surgical implementation of implants to hold the fractured bone in its proper anatomical position for the purpose of healing.

Outcomes of the Research

• The surgical interventions-described in this study, demonstrated positive long-term results.
• The research brought to light the successful application of the inferior check ligament desmotomy and internal fixation methods as viable treatment options for similar cases.