Surgical repair of a supraglenoid tubercle fracture in a horse.

This research article details the surgical procedure employed to effectively repair a fracture in the right supraglenoid tubercle of a 15-month old Thoroughbred gelding horse. The procedure involved a partial biceps brachii tenotomy, interfragmentary compression, and tension band wiring, and the horse has since remained in a healthy condition for four years.

Background

• The focus of this study is a fracture in a horse’s supraglenoid tubercle – a part of the scapula, or shoulder blade. Fractures in this area can threaten a horse’s health and mobility.
• The horse studied is a Thoroughbred gelding, which is a young, castrated male horse of a breed that excels in racing.

Methodology

• In order to repair the fracture, the surgeons utilized a multi-part process that consisted of a partial biceps brachii tenotomy, interfragmentary compression, and tension band wiring.
• A tenotomy is a procedure in which a tendon is cut, in this case, the biceps brachii, which could have possibly been applying stress to the area of the fracture.
• Interfragmentary compression involves compressing the pieces of the fractured bone together, promoting healing and bone regrowth. The execution of this procedure was not detailed extensively in the summary.
• The final part of the procedure involved tension band wiring. This involves the use of surgical wire wrapped around the bone to support it and maintain appropriate tension across the fracture site, enhancing recovery and healing.

Results

• The outcome of the surgical procedure was positive. The horse was able to return to regular activities and has remained sound for four years following the surgery.
• This suggests the surgical process was successful in sufficiently healing the fracture and restoring normal structure and function to the affected area.
• Furthermore, it is stated that the horse is currently being ridden daily, demonstrating the procedure’s effective contribution to the horse’s improved and sustained mobility and performance.