The arterial supply of the navicular bone in adult horses with navicular disease.

This research studied the blood supply to the navicular bone in horses with symptoms of navicular disease, a condition that frequently affects their ability to move. The study found changes in blood supply patterns that indicate the disease may cause a reduction in blood flow to the area, forcing nearby arteries to compensate.

Research Methodology

• The research is a combination of macroscopical, arteriographical, and histological study focused on the arterial supply of the navicular bones of horses, that’s showing clinical and/or radiographic signs of navicular disease.
• In the study, researchers observed the navicular bones of 40 Warmblood horses, which were categorised into four distinct groups based on their clinical and radiological findings.

Research Findings

• The researchers noted evident changes in the arteriogram patterns showing an imbalance and a shift from distal to proximal between the arterial supply. This change suggests a decrease in distal blood supply, necessitating a compensatory reaction from the proximal, medial and lateral supply.
• The alterations in the arteriogram pattern are defined histologically by arteriosclerosis or hardening of the arteries and the formation of new arteries.

Implication of Findings

• The research also identified a correlation between the presence of radiologically visible nutrient foramina and an altered arteriogram pattern, increased bone remodelling, and fibrosis.
• The study considers ischemia, a condition of significantly reduced blood flow, and increased pressure, either through hypertension or amplified intra-articular pressure, as potential causes for the changes in form and number of radiologically visible nutrient foramina.

Conclusion

• Overall, the study indicates that navicular disease in horses can lead to significant changes in the arteriogram pattern of the navicular bone. This insight can guide future research to better understand the disease’s progression and formulate appropriate treatment strategies.