Supernumerary bones in horse’s hoof and operation for their removal.

The research article discusses a case where a horse was suffering from lameness due to a supernumerary or extra bone in its hoof. The author of this study performed a successful surgery to remove this bone, relieving the horse from pain and restoring its ability to walk normally.

Summary of the Study

The article initially describes the guidance sought by a local blacksmith to investigate the cause of lameness in a horse he was shoeing. The horse had a large, vascular growth in its hoof, diagnosed as “Canker“, which was removed by using a heated steel chisel. However, upon removal, the author discovered a protruding mushroom-like stock from the horse’s sole, which was cauterised and covered with oil of tar and okum. A noticeable improvement was observed, but the horse went lame again after a month.

Identification of the Problem

• The horse’s lameness persisted after surgery, even though the blacksmith cleaned and padded the hoof. An inspection revealed pus exuding from the hoof, indicating an ongoing infection.
• Upon further examination, the author discovered the presence of a mobile bony object inside the hoof. This unusual bone was embedded in the sensitive tissue beneath the navicular bone, causing the horse discomfort.

Surgical Intervention

• The movable bone was dissected and removed from the hoof. Its attachment to the navicular joint required significant cutting and led to considerable bleeding.
• The author noted the peculiarity of this bone as it closely resembled a navicular bone, linked with a concave bony shell attached to the sole which was also removed.
• The wound was dressed with sterile gauze and a sulphanilimide powder, a shoe was also reapplied to the hoof.

Post-Surgical Treatment and Outcome

• The driver was instructed to remove and reapply the dressing daily through an opening made on the hoof’s exterior wall. This recovery treatment was continued until the hoof’s sole and wall were entirely healed.
• After a year, the horse now works regularly, having made a complete recovery post the removal of the supernumerary bone.

Conclusions

• An observation made upon the removal of the bone revealed it contained a large blood vessel. The author concludes that this bone was not a fragment or broken piece from the hoof’s main bone (Os Pedis), but an entirely separate, supernumerary bone.
• This case study provides valuable insight for veterinary surgeons dealing with similar lameness issues in horses caused by supernumerary bones in their hoofs.