The use of small (2.7 mm) screws for arthroscopically guided repair of carpal chip fractures.

The researchers studied the use of small 2.7 mm screws in horses for the arthroscopic repair of large osteochondral chip fractures of the carpal bones. The research demonstrates that using these screws can improve healing and performance outcomes in such cases.

Research Purpose and Methodology

The team aimed to explore whether arthroscopically guided internal fixation with small-diameter AO/ASIF cortex screws could provide effective repair of large osteochondral chip fractures in horses. Selection was based on the size and infrastructure of the fracture, ensuring it was adequate for a 2.7 mm screw repair.

The Data Collection Process

• The researchers identified 33 horses, who underwent surgery to repair a total of 35 fractures.
• The majority of the fractures (25 cases) were located in the dorsodistal radial carpal bone, nine fractures affected the dorsal margin of the radial facet of the third carpal bone, and one fracture was found in the intermediate facet of the distal radius.

Findings

• The surgical procedure did not result in any complications.
• Out of the 28 horses that were followed up, satisfactory fracture healing was achieved in 26 cases.
• Furthermore, 23 horses were able to return to their racing performance after the operation.

Conclusion and Implications

• The use of small-diameter cortex screws for arthroscopically guided repair of carpal chip fractures is technically feasible.
• Based on the findings from the 33 cases studied, this method may present advantages over fragment removal for managing large osteochondral chip fractures in horses.
• Therefore, veterinary surgeons handling large chip fractures should consider this innovative repair method as an effective alternative to fragment removal.