Plate fixation for management of plantar instability of the distal tarsus/proximal metatarsus in 5 horses.

The research article reports on the use of plate fixation in managing injuries in equines that resulted in instability of the plantar aspect of the distal tarsus/proximal metatarsus. The study found plate fixation to be effective for resultant plantar instability of these bones, even enabling some horses to regain limited riding capabilities post-surgery.

Research Methodology

• The study’s researchers reviewed medical records from multiple decades (October 1988 to August 2007) of horses that underwent internal fixation of the distal aspect of the tarsus.
• The research focused on cases where a dynamic compression plate (DCP) or a locking compression plate (LCP) was used on the plantar-lateral aspect of the tarsus, ranging from the proximal calcaneus to the proximal one third of the metatarsus.
• Several factors such as signalment (a horse’s identity, presenting signs, and medical history), clinical signs of the injury, radiographic findings, time elapsed before the surgery, type of implant used, postoperative management, and complications were all recorded and analyzed.
• Long-term outcomes of these surgeries were available for four out of five horses, allowing for observation of efficacy over a span greater than one year.

Research Findings

• The study sample comprised five horses, with DCP fixation being used in four cases and LCP fixation in one case.
• Three horses were treated for subluxation (partial dislocation) of the proximal intertarsal joint, while two horses received treatment for fractures of the distal tarsal bones or proximal aspect of the metatarsus.
• Several perioperative complications were observed: two instances of peroneus tertius rupture (a tendon injury), and one instance of postoperative infection.
• Out of the five horses, four were discharged and considered sound for pasture movement one year post-surgery. Furthermore, three horses regained soundness sufficient for limited riding.

Conclusions

• The results of the research showed that plate fixation provides sufficient strength and stability for treating injuries resulting in plantar instability of the tarsus and proximal metatarsus.
• The technique proved effective enough to restore pasture soundness in most cases, and even some degree of riding ability in certain instances.