Slab fractures of the third tarsal bone: Minimally invasive repair using a single 3.5 mm cortex screw placed in lag fashion in 17 Thoroughbred racehorses.

This research examined a novel technique to treat slab fractures of the third tarsal bone in Thoroughbred racehorses using a minimally invasive approach. The findings reinforced observations that the procedure appears safe and effective, and more horses returned to racing compared to conservative treatment methods.

Methodology

• The researchers undertook a retrospective case study, examining the records of horses that underwent surgery to repair uniplanar frontal slab fractures of the third tarsal bone. The treatment employed a single 3.5 mm cortex screw in lag fashion.
• The unique physiology of the horses required a specific surgical approach: the tarsal bones were often wedge-shaped, and the point midway between the long and lateral digital extensor tendons and centrodistal and tarsometatarsal joints provided a suitable entry site for implants.
• The distinct fracture location, configuration and curvature of the third tarsal bone required a dorsolateral proximal-plantaromedial distal trajectory for the screw placement, which was determined by preplaced needles.

Results and Findings

• The surgery went smoothly with no recorded complications, and all fractures were healed within 4 to 6 months following the procedure.
• Out of the 17 horses studied, 79% were able to return to racing. At the time the study was reported, three horses were still undergoing <a href="/equine-rehabilitation-guide/" title="post-operative rehabilitation programmes.
• The research demonstrated that a significant proportion of racehorses could make successful returns to their sport after successful surgical intervention.

Conclusions

• The researchers concluded that the innovative technique used for treating slab fractures of the third tarsal bone is a safe, effective and repeatable method.
• Additionally, the study shows that surgical repair of these fractures represents a viable alternative to traditional conservative management strategies which typically lead to a lesser percentage of horses returning to racing.