Prevalence, radiographic resolution and outcomes of slab fractures of the third and central tarsal bones in juvenile Thoroughbred horses.

The research study evaluates the occurrence and radiographic appearance of slab fractures of the third and central tarsal bones in juvenile Thoroughbred horses and their impact on their future racing performance. It suggests that these fractures can occur in young Thoroughbreds, and most heal with a minimum of six months’ continued pasture turnout. However, the study calls for further research to determine risk factors and conclusively understand optimal management, prognosis for racing, and long-term soundness.

Research Methodology

• The researchers analyzed weanling and yearling Thoroughbred horses with either complete or incomplete fractures in the third (T3) and central tarsal (Tc) bones. This data was found by searching a database of radiographs.
• The occurrence, radiographic appearance at initial diagnosis and post a continued pasture turnout, and the prognosis of the horse’s fractures were determined.

Research Findings

• Fractures were found in 186 tarsi (184 T3 fractures only, 1 Tc fracture only, 1 Tc and T3 fracture) of 157 horses out of 7676 examinations, giving an occurrence rate of 2.40 and 0.04 per 100 radiographic examinations respectively for T3 and Tc fractures.
• Most fractures were identified via the D556-65°MPlLO view method and were usuallyfound in horses around 11.1 ± 1.3 months old.
• At the time of initial diagnosis, 84.3% of T3 fractures appeared to be incomplete and involved the distal articular surface.
• Fractures tended to heal by the time the horses were examined again if there was more than 6 months between examinations (found true for 71.9% of tarsi).
• No discernable change in sale price due to these fractures, however, horses with T3 fractures had fewer trials at 2 and 3 years old, but there were no other apparent impacts on racing performance.

Conclusions and Further Research

• The study concludes that slab fractures can occur in juvenile Thoroughbred horses and generally heal with over six months of continuous pasture turnout.
• However, there is a need for further investigation to identify risk factors. In addition, more research is required to gather conclusive information about the optimal management of these cases, the prognosis for racing and thorough evaluation of long-term soundness.