Minimally invasive plate fixation of lower limb injury in horses: 32 cases (1999-2003).
BACKGROUND
Complications of osteosynthesis including superficial and deep infections continue to affect adversely outcome in equine surgery of the lower limb.


OBJECTIVE
To describe a technique for minimally invasive plate fixation in horses and evaluate clinical results of the technique.


OBJECTIVE
Lower complication rates would occur in horses treated with a minimally invasive approach compared with conventional techniques.


METHODS
Cases of minimally invasive plate fixation from January 1999 to December 2003 were evaluated. Case records, radiographs and race records for horses that sustained distal third metacarpal/metatarsal (Mc/tIII) condylar fractures were assessed. Follow-up information was obtained and results analysed. In addition, results for horses that received arthrodesis by a conventional, open approach during the same period were evaluated and statistical analysis was performed.


RESULTS
Thirty-two cases of minimally invasive plate fixation were identified (22 incomplete distal Mc/tIII condylar fractures with a spiralling or diaphyseal component, 10 metacarpophalangeal arthrodeses and 4 pastern arthrodeses). For both types of arthrodesis, surgery times and infection rates were lower and survival rates higher in the minimally invasive group, but no statistical difference was found. Spiralling condylar fractures were successfully managed, without catastrophic fracture.


CONCLUSIONS
Minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis (MIPPO) can be successfully used for select applications in horses, and may reduce morbidity and mortality in equine fracture repair.
James
F M
FM
Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, 382 West Street Road, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania 19348-1692, USA.
Richardson
D W
DW
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D000818:Animals; D001174:Arthrodesis / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary; D001860:Bone Plates / Q000662:veterinary*; D001863:Bone Screws / Q000662:veterinary; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D006736:Horses / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D016896:Treatment Outcome