Proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis in 34 horses using two parallel 5.5-mm cortical bone screws.
OBJECTIVE
To report clinical experience with arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint in horses using two parallel 5.5-mm cortical bone screws placed in lag fashion.


METHODS
Retrospective, clinical study.


METHODS
Thirty-four horses, aged 1 to 19 years.


METHODS
Medical records for all horses admitted (1991-1997) for pastern arthrodesis using two 5.5-mm ASIF cortical bone screws, in parallel orientation, and placed in lag fashion by use of a combined aiming device to facilitate accuracy were reviewed. Signalment, lameness diagnosis, duration of lameness, limb(s) involved, and outcome were recorded. Criteria for successful outcome were determined as return to previous level of function or future intended athletic use.


RESULTS
Thirty-nine proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodeses were performed on 34 horses. One horse was euthanatized in the recovery room and was excluded from data analysis. Successful outcome occurred in 85% of frontlimbs and 89% of hindlimbs. Failure occurred in 5 joints; 1 horse had lameness directly associated with surgery, whereas 4 horses had unrelated lameness.


CONCLUSIONS
Age, breed, and initial disease did not affect outcome. Arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint by use of two 5.5-mm ASIF cortical bone screws, in parallel orientation, placed in lag fashion by use of a combined aiming device, resulted in sound use of the limb in >85% of the joints with shortened postoperative coaptation.
MacLellan
K N
KN
Young-Crawford Veterinary Clinic, Innisfail, Alberta, Canada.
Crawford
W H
WH
MacDonald
D G
DG
D000818:Animals; D001174:Arthrodesis / Q000662:veterinary*; D001863:Bone Screws / Q000662:veterinary*; D005260:Female; D005552:Forelimb / Q000601:surgery; D006614:Hindlimb / Q000601:surgery; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D006736:Horses; D007794:Lameness, Animal / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D011996:Records / Q000662:veterinary; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014033:Toe Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome