Segmental ostectomy of the second and fourth metacarpal and metatarsal bones in horses: 17 cases (1993-2002).
OBJECTIVE
To determine clinical findings in and outcome of horses with fractures of the second or fourth metacarpal or metatarsal bone that underwent segmental ostectomy, leaving the proximal and distal portions of the bone undisturbed.


METHODS
Retrospective case series.


METHODS
17 horses.


METHODS
Medical records were reviewed, and information on signalment, affected bone, lesion type, surgical procedure, amount of bone removed, and surgical and postsurgical complications was obtained. Follow-up information was obtained through telephone conversations with owners, trainers, and referring veterinarians.


RESULTS
One horse had a fracture involving the distal third of the second metacarpal bone; 13 had fractures involving the middle third of the second metacarpal bone (n = 4), fourth metacarpal bone (5), or fourth metatarsal bone (4); and 3 had fractures involving the proximal third of the second (2) or fourth (1) metacarpal bone. Affected portions of the bones were surgically resected, leaving the proximal and distal portions undisturbed. All horses returned to previous performance levels without evidence of lameness. Cosmetic results were good to excellent.


CONCLUSIONS
Results suggest that horses with a complicated injury of the proximal, middle, or distal portion of the second or fourth metacarpal or metatarsal bone may be successfully treated by means of segmental ostectomy of the abnormal portion of the bone.
Jenson
Paul W
PW
Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA.
Gaughan
Earl M
EM
Lillich
James D
JD
Bryant
James E
JE
D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D006736:Horses / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D050279:Metacarpal Bones / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D008682:Metatarsal Bones / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000662:veterinary; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome