Post operative performance of racing Standardbreds treated arthroscopically for carpal chip fractures: 176 cases (1986-1993).

The research analyzes the post-operative performance of 176 Standardbred racehorses undergoing arthroscopic surgery for carpal chip fractures over a seven-year span. The study suggests that while most horses remain competitive post-operation, they typically earn less and often compete at a lower level.

Objective and Sampling

• The research observed and analyzed 176 Standardbred racehorses that underwent arthroscopic surgery for carpal chip fractures between 1986 and 1993.
• The purpose of the study was to identify the location of the fracture and assess the post-operative performance of the horses.

Findings

• The study found that chip fractures occurred most commonly in the proximal third carpal bone and distal radiocarpal bone, with similar frequency rates (49.2% and 49.6% respectively).
• On the other hand, chip fractures at the antebrachiocarpal joint were relatively rare.
• In the two categories of Standardbreds, trotters and pacers, trotters had significantly more lesions in the third carpal bone compared to radiocarpal bone lesions when compared to pacers.

Post-Operative Performance

• Approximately 74% of the horses were able to race at least once after their surgery, demonstrating the feasibility of racing post-operation.
• Comparatively, pacers were significantly more likely to race at least once after surgery than trotters were.
• The study also tracked the performance of the horses post-surgery and found that median earnings per start decreased significantly after the procedure.
• Additionally, the median race mark, or performance level, showed a significant increase after surgery.
• This suggested that despite remaining active and competitive after their operation, the racing horses typically had lesser earnings per race.

Conclusion

• The study concluded that while a majority of Standardbred racehorses remain useful in races following arthroscopic surgery, they generally earn less per race.
• Moreover, many of the horses compete at a lower classification post-operation.