title: Avulsion fracture of the origin of the extensor digitorum longus muscle in a foal.
abstract: A 9-week-old Thoroughbred x Holsteiner colt was referred for evaluation and treatment of lameness of the right hind limb. Radiography of the stifle revealed multiple bony fragments within the lateral portion of the femorotibial joint and a radiolucency of the distolateral portion of the femur in the area of the extensor fossa, which were consistent with avulsion of the origin of the extensor digitorum longus muscle. Arthroscopy of the lateral portion of the femorotibial joint revealed exposed subchondral bone in the area of the extensor fossa, and the origin of the extensor digitorum longus muscle was determined to be avulsed. The joint was lavaged, and fibrin and fragments of cartilage and bone were removed from the joint. Six months after surgery, the horse appeared normal during trotting and cantering.
authors.affiliation: Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210-1089.
authors.forename: S J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Holcombe
authors.forename: A L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Bertone
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D005264:Femoral Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D006614:Hindlimb; D006736:Horses / Q000293:injuries*; D007794:Lameness, Animal / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D009132:Muscles / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D011859:Radiography; D013264:Stifle / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery