Use of a three-drill-tract technique for arthrodesis of the distal tarsal joints in horses with distal tarsal osteoarthritis: 54 cases (1990-1999).
OBJECTIVE
To assess the long-term clinical outcome of horses with distal tarsal osteoarthritis (OA) in which a 3-drill-tract technique was used to induce arthrodesis of the affected joints, identify any preoperative or operative factors associated with outcome, and describe any complications associated with the technique.


METHODS
Retrospective study.


METHODS
54 horses.


METHODS
Medical records were reviewed for information on signalment, use, history, physical and lameness examination findings, surgical technique, and postoperative care. Radiographs were examined, and severity of OA was graded. Follow-up information was obtained through telephone interviews with owners at least 13 months after the procedure.


RESULTS
32 (59%) horses had a successful outcome, 6 (11%) improved but were not sound after surgery, and 16 (30%) did not improve following surgery. Outcome was negatively associated with the previous use of intra-articular injections. Few postoperative complications were evident.


CONCLUSIONS
Results suggest that distal tarsal OA in horses can be successfully treated by means of distal tarsal arthrodesis with a 3-drill-tract technique. Horses with advanced distal tarsal OA are likely to have poorer outcomes, and the procedure will likely be of minimal benefit in horses with concomitant causes of hind limb lameness prior to surgery and in horses with preexisting proximal intertarsal joint disease.
Dechant
Julie E
JE
Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
Baxter
Gary M
GM
Southwood
Louise L
LL
Crawford
William H
WH
Jackman
Bradley R
BR
Stashak
Ted S
TS
Trotter
Gayle W
GW
Hendrickson
Dean A
DA
D000818:Animals; D001174:Arthrodesis / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D006736:Horses; D007794:Lameness, Animal / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013640:Tarsal Joints / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome