Comparison of racing performance before and after treatment of incomplete, midsagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx in standardbreds: 49 cases (1986-1992)
OBJECTIVE
To assess the effect of incomplete, midsagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx (P1) on racing performance in Standardbreds.


METHODS
Retrospective cohort study.


METHODS
49 Standardbred horses admitted to the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals between July 1986 and December 1992 with a definitive radiographic diagnosis of an incomplete, midsagittal fracture of P1 and a known method of treatment.


METHODS
Performance index and racing time were compared before and after diagnosis and treatment of fracture, using ANOVA that controlled for the effects of horse, gender, age, track length, and track condition.


RESULTS
Expected racing time increased by 0.7 seconds and performance index decreased by 0.7 points, although controlling for factors known to affect racing performance had a substantial impact on these results.


CONCLUSIONS
Standardbreds with incomplete, midsagittal fractures of P1 have a favorable prognosis for return to racing; recovered horses will likely have slower racing times and decreased performance indices.
Tetens
J
J
Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square 19348, USA.
Ross
M W
MW
Lloyd
J W
JW
D000818:Animals; D015331:Cohort Studies; D005121:Extremities / Q000293:injuries*; D005260:Female; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D006736:Horses / Q000293:injuries* / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012420:Running / Q000502:physiology*