Long-term results and complications of proximal interphalangeal arthrodesis in horses.

The research article discusses the long-term outcomes and complications associated with performing a surgical procedure, called proximal interphalangeal arthrodesis, on horses. The study found that a majority of the horses that underwent the surgery were able to return to their original function, despite experiencing some complications.

Methodology

• The researchers conducted a retrospective study on 21 horses that had undergone proximal interphalangeal arthrodesis.
• Most of the surgeries were performed on the right hindlimb and were primarily due to acute trauma.
• Follow-up data was collected from the owners of the horses. When possible, follow-up radiographs and clinical examinations were also reviewed.

Results

• Follow-up information was available for 20 horses, 16 of which were deemed serviceable or capable of performing their original tasks.
• 86% of the horses which had the operation on a hindlimb were serviceable, compared to 67% of horses that had a forelimb arthrodesed.
• The average length of time taken to return to serviceability was one year.

Complications

• Follow-up radiographs on forelimb cases revealed several complications such as navicular disease, degenerative joint disease in the distal interphalangeal joint, and a bony growth off the dorsal surface of the third phalanx.
• However, these radiographic changes did not correlate accurately with the owner’s assessment of serviceability.
• Follow-up clinical examinations showed that in two horses, their toe lifted off the ground while bearing weight.

Implications of the Research

• The study indicates that proximal interphalangeal arthrodesis can be an effective treatment with a high rate of return to serviceability.
• However, it also points to several complications that can arise post-operation and suggests that these do not always align with the owner’s perception of the horse’s functionality.
• As the method of measuring serviceability was primarily subjective, based on the owner’s opinion, further research may be needed to create a more objective assessment of a horse’s functionality post-arthrodesis.