Use of autogenous cancellous bone grafting in the treatment of septic navicular bursitis and distal sesamoid osteomyelitis in horses.

This research studied the use of autogenous cancellous bone grafting to treat septic navicular bursitis and distal sesamoid osteomyelitis in horses. Six horses were treated using surgical debridement, lavage, and packing the wound with the bone graft. The results showed that four of the horses survived with significant improvements, although one was still lame.

Objective of the Research

• The research aimed to examine the effectiveness of autogenous cancellous bone grafting in treating septic navicular bursitis and distal sesamoid osteomyelitis in horses. The study intended to analyze the outcome of surgical debridement and lavage followed by packing of the wound with a bone graft.

Methodology

• It involved a small sample size of six horses diagnosed with septic navicular bursitis or distal sesamoid osteomyelitis.
• The treatment procedure included a surgical debridement and lavage. Post this, the wound that was created at the bottom of the foot was packed with an autogenous cancellous bone graft.

Results of the Study

• Two of the six horses had to be euthanized – one due to complications arising in the non-surgical limb after 18 months, and the second because of continued severe lameness, lasting for 68 days post-surgery.
• Four of the horses survived for periods ranging from 9 to 42 months post-surgery.
• One of these horses, which was used as a broodmare, showed no lameness. Two of the horses were being ridden, indicating a return to normal function. However, one horse, despite remarkable improvement, was still lame.

Implications of the findings

• The results suggest that autogenous cancellous bone grafts, in combination with surgical debridement and antimicrobial treatment, can be successfully used in treating septic navicular bursitis and distal sesamoid osteomyelitis in horses.
• However, it is of note that one horse, despite the treatment, remained lame. This indicates that while the treatment shows some promise, additional studies may be required to refine the treatment protocol and improve outcomes.