Stress fracture of the scapula in two horses.

The research focused on two cases of stress fracture in the scapulae of horses, identified through nuclear scintigraphy, which led to acute lameness following heavy exercise. Regular standing radiography could not diagnose the condition in both cases. With conservative treatment methods, both horses returned to their training and racing activities post-injury.

Introduction to the study

• The study focused on two cases of stress fracture in the shoulder blade (scapula) of horses, a condition leading to acute lameness exacerbated by strenuous exercise.
• Nuclear scintigraphy, a diagnostic tool that uses radioisotopes to get a visual representation of the horse’s skeletal system, was employed to identify the fractures. This method increased the radiopharmaceutical uptake in the affected scapula, showing indications of the stress fracture.

Diagnostics and findings

• Standard standing radiography, a common diagnostic tool, failed to identify the fracture in both horses.
• In one of the horses, ultrasonographic findings helped identify a minimally displaced incomplete fracture. Ultrasonography is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging technique that uses sound waves to capture images of the body’s insides.

Treatment and recovery

• Both horses were treated with conservative therapeutic methods. In medical contexts, “conservative” treatment typically refers to treatments that are non-invasive and aim at managing the condition rather than surgically correcting it.
• Post-treatment, both horses successfully returned to their training and racing activities, demonstrating that the treatment was effective in managing the stress fractures and that thorough recovery was achievable.

Significance of the study

• This research sheds light on stress fractures in horses, a serious condition that can severely impact their performance and wellbeing. Using advanced diagnostic tools like nuclear scintigraphy could play a crucial role in better identifying and managing such injuries.
• The successful recovery and return to activity of the horses post-treatment underscores the effectiveness of conservative treatment approaches in this area.