Rupture of collateral ligaments in metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints in horses: 17 cases (1999--2005).
OBJECTIVE
To characterize ruptures of collateral ligaments (CLs) in metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints in horses.


METHODS
Retrospective case series.


METHODS
17 horses with ruptured CLs.


METHODS
Data were obtained from medical records, including signalment, history, clinical signs, ultrasonographic and radiographic findings, treatment, and outcome. Additional follow-up information was obtained from owners or referring veterinarians.


RESULTS
The lateral CL was ruptured in 11 horses; the medial CL was ruptured in 6 horses. Ultrasonography revealed ipsilateral rupture of the short and long components of the CL in 11 horses and rupture of only 1 component in 6 horses. No biaxial ruptures were detected, but 9 horses had desmitis of the CL on the nonruptured side of the affected joint. All horses were lame (lameness score range, 2/5 to 4/5). Joint instability was palpable in 9 horses; only 4 horses had episodes of joint luxation. Avulsion fractures were identified radiographically in 6 horses and ultrasonographically in another 2 horses. Stress radiography revealed joint instability in 10 horses. Horses were managed by stall confinement, limb immobilization, and gradual return to exercise. Eight horses returned to riding, 2 resumed breeding, 2 were retired, 2 were euthanized, and 3 were doing well 86 to 139 days after injury.


CONCLUSIONS
Ultrasonographic examination is indicated in horses with acute lameness and swelling at the metacarpophalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joint, particularly when stress radiography cannot be performed or findings are equivocal. Affected horses can be conservatively managed. Prognosis for athletic use may be better than originally believed.
Tenney
Wade A
WA
William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
Whitcomb
Mary Beth
MB
D000818:Animals; D002370:Casts, Surgical; D017885:Collateral Ligaments / Q000293:injuries*; D005260:Female; D006736:Horses / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery*; D007794:Lameness, Animal / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008662:Metacarpophalangeal Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D008683:Metatarsophalangeal Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D011859:Radiography; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012421:Rupture / Q000662:veterinary; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014463:Ultrasonography