Subchondral cystic lesions of the proximal extremity of the tibia in horses: 12 cases (1983-2000).

This research article studied the clinical and radiographic features of subchondral cystic lesions situated on the top of the tibia (a bone in leg) in horses, to classify these lesions as being related to either osteochondrosis or osteoarthritis, and evaluated the effectiveness of surgical debridement as a treatment method.

Study Methodology

• The study was carried out retrospectively, using medical records and prior radiographs of 12 horses that had 14 subchondral cystic lesions (SCL).
• To classify the lesions as being related to either osteochondrosis or osteoarthritis, the researchers examined the clinical characteristics and radiographic features of the SCLs.
• The researchers also evaluated the results of the surgical procedure known as debridement, in which the damaged or abnormal tissue or bone is removed to improve healing.

Findings of the Study

• In half of the horses studied (6 young horses with 8 lesions), the SCLs were considered to be connected with osteochondrosis; all these cases involved the lateral condyle of the tibia (outer part of the tibia at the joint).
• The remaining 6 horses were mature and had radiographic signs of developing osteoarthritis, in addition to the SCLs.
• Arthroscopic debridement, a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to repair or remove damaged joint tissues, was carried out in 4 horses with lesions originating from osteochondrosis and in 3 horses with osteoarthritis.
• Following debridement, 3 horses which had osteochondrosis were capable of performing athletically. Two horses which had moderate osteoarthritis returned to work post-arthroscopic debridement, although at a lower level of athletic performance.
• One horse with SCL related to osteochondrosis responded positively to medical treatment alone and was able to participate in racing.

Conclusions from the Study

• The results of this study indicate that arthroscopic debridement is an achievable surgical approach for horses’ SCLs involving the cranial part of the lateral or medial tibial condyle.
• The study also revealed that horses treated with this method may resume their athletic performance, making it a promising treatment option for horses suffering from SCLs related to either osteochondrosis or osteoarthritis.