The use of a polypropylene mesh for treatment of ruptured collateral ligaments of the equine metatarsophalangeal joint: a report of two cases.

This research article presents a surgical technique that uses polypropylene mesh as a replacement for ruptured ligaments in horse’s joints, offering a potential solution to persistent lameness and the development of osteoarthritis that often hinders horses’ athletic performance.

Research Background

• Traditionally, the prognosis for horses suffering from ruptured collateral ligaments of the metacarpophalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joint is poor. This condition often results in joint instability and consequential development of osteoarthritis, leading to ongoing lameness.
• This chronic condition often compromises the horse’s athletic performance and negatively affects their quality of life.

Surgical Technique

• In the study, the researchers suggest a new surgical technique to address the issue of ruptured collateral ligaments in horses.
• The proposed technique uses a polypropylene mesh in place of the ruptured ligaments to stabilize the joint.
• After the procedure, a cast was applied for a duration of 7 weeks to further support healing and alignment.

Research Findings

• The technique was applied to two horses suffering from ruptured lateral collateral ligaments of a metatarsophalangeal joint. Follow-up observations indicated successful outcomes for both cases.
• Fifteen months after surgery, both horses were able to return to exercise. Their performance was evaluated as fair in one case and good in the other.

Conclusion

• The research concludes that the described surgical technique to stabilize ruptured collateral ligaments of the fetlock joint in horses using polypropylene mesh shows potential.
• While the sample size is small, the outcomes of the two experimental cases suggest this surgical technique could offer promising results for improving the prognosis and athletic performance of horses suffering from such conditions.