Use of antibiotic-impregnated polymethyl methacrylate in horses with open or infected fractures or joints: 19 cases (1987-1995).

The article presents a study evaluating the effectiveness of antibiotic-impregnated polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) in treating horses with open or infected fractures or joints, where internal fixation or external coaptation devices were applied.

Research Methodology

• The researchers undertook a retrospective analysis of 19 cases wherein antibiotic-impregnated PMMA was utilized as part of the treatment protocol.
• The medical records of all 19 horses were thoroughly reviewed.
• In order to gain additional insights, the researchers made contact with the horse owners and trainers for further information regarding the condition and recovery of the horses.

Nature of the Musculoskeletal Problems

• The nature of the musculoskeletal issues in the horses under review included 10 fractures of the long bones, 2 comminuted phalangeal fractures, 5 joint injuries and, 2 chronically septic joints where ankylosis was stimulated.
• Nine of the horses had open fractures, 8 had closed wounds and developed infection post internal fixation of fractures and, 2 had chronically septic joints.

Treatment Results

• Bony union, the last stage of bone healing where the hard callus is replaced with compact bone, was achieved in 15 out of the 19 horses.
• Out of the initial 19 horses, 12 horses were discharged from the hospital and survived in the long term.

Types of Antibiotics Used

• The antibiotics used in the PMMA included Gentamicin sulfate, Tobramycin sulfate, Amikacin sulfate, and Cefazolin sodium.

Research Conclusion

• The research concluded that the use of antibiotic-impregnated PMMA provides high local concentrations of antibiotics, and should thus be considered as a treatment option for horses presenting with open fractures and acute and chronic bone and joint infections.