The use of ionising radiation for the treatment of injuries to flexor tendons and supporting ligaments in horses.

The research article presents a method for using ionising radiation to treat injuries to flexor tendons and supporting ligaments in horses, with promising results showing many horses able to race again after treatment.

Research Objective

• The main objective of the research was to develop a technique that uses radioactive isotopes as a source of ionising radiation to treat injuries to the superficial and deep flexor tendons and associated ligaments in horses.

Methodology

• The researchers devised a method wherein the treatment area was sub-divided allowing different dosages to be applied to various parts of the limb as needed.
• A plaster of Paris mold was used to map out the entire treatment area.
• In the isotope laboratory, a plaster negative was created using the original cast and then loaded with the prescribed dose of radioactive isotopes.
• The loaded cast was then strapped to the horse’s limb for a specific duration, typically around three days.

Results and Outcomes

• A total of 42 horses were treated using this method, and follow-up information was obtained for 28 of these horses.
• Post-treatment, 25 of the horses were able to race again. Unfortunately, two of them relapsed before racing, and one had to be euthanized due to navicular disease.
• An interesting finding from the study was that 10 out of the 42 horses had undergone a different treatment method termed ‘firing’ before the irradiation. Out of these, five were able to return to racing, although the detailed history of four among them was unavailable for study.

Conclusion

• The researchers concluded that the use of ionising radiation using radioactive isotopes could potentially be an effective treatment for injuries to flexor tendons and ligaments in horses, leading to improved prognosis and return to racing activities.