Longitudinal fractures of the condyles of the third metacarpal and metatarsal bones in racehorses: 224 cases (1986-1995).

The study analyzes the nature, distribution and radiographic representation of condylar fractures in racehorses’ third metacarpal and metatarsal bones. The research also evaluates the prognosis of horses undergoing surgical repairs for these fractures and identifies variables affecting the likelihood of the horse returning to racing.

Study Design and Sample

• The researchers conducted retrospective study, reviewing data from 224 racehorses, specifically Thoroughbreds, Standardbreds, and Arabians, which suffered 233 fractures in total.
• Medical records along with pre and post-treatment radiographs were reviewed to assess the horses’ conditions and progress.
• The researchers also analyzed the horses’ racing records before and after the treatment to evaluate their performance resurgence.

Findings

• The study found that Thoroughbreds were overly represented in the sample, while Standardbreds were underrepresented relative to the general hospital population.
• Thoroughbreds were observed to have significantly more lateral condylar fractures and more forelimb fractures than Standardbreds.
• The likelihood of Thoroughbreds returning to racing after treatment was lower if they had completely fractured lateral condyles or a concurrent fracture of the proximal sesamoid bone.
• Rehabilitation timeframes were longer for Thoroughbreds with medial condylar fractures of the third metatarsal bone (MT-3), compared to those with lateral condylar fractures of MT-3.

Conclusions

• The researchers concluded that horses with condylar fractures in the third metacarpal and metatarsal bones that display minimal pathological changes in the affected joint have a good prognosis for returning to racing after surgical treatment.
• Prognosis was found to be poor for horses with complete condylar fractures, especially those with substantial pathological changes in the affected joint.