Long-term outcome after arthroscopic debridement of distal phalanx extensor process fragmentation in 13 horses.
OBJECTIVE
To report long-term outcome after arthroscopic removal of fragmentation of the extensor process of the distal phalanx in horses.


METHODS
Case series.


METHODS
Adult horses (n=13).


METHODS
Medical records (2003-2004) of horses that had arthroscopic debridement of fragmentation of the extensor process of the distal phalanx were reviewed. Inclusion criteria included: lameness localized to the foot, fragmentation of the extensor process of the distal phalanx debrided arthroscopically, and a follow-up period of > or = 4 years.


RESULTS
Of the 13 horses, lameness was resolved in 11 (85%) initially but distal interphalangeal joint pain recurred in 2 (15%) within 1 year of surgery. Three (23%) other horses were retired because of lameness at other sites during the follow-up period resulting in 46% (6/13) being not lame and in full work after 4 years. Substantial changes were identified at surgery in the contralateral joint of 7 horses, even when fragments were only present unilaterally.


CONCLUSIONS
Arthroscopic debridement of fragmentation of the extensor process of the forelimb distal phalanx has a good short-term prognosis for resolution of lameness and return to work but a more guarded prognosis for long-term soundness.


CONCLUSIONS
These results allow for more accurate prognostication preoperatively and may support early debridement of fragmentation of the extensor process of the distal phalanx.
Crowe
Oliver M
OM
Willesley Equine Clinic, Willesley, Gloucestershire, UK. ollie@equine-vet-willesley.co.uk
Hepburn
Richard J
RJ
Kold
Svend E
SE
Smith
Roger K
RK
D000818:Animals; D001182:Arthroscopy / Q000662:veterinary*; D003646:Debridement / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D005260:Female; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D006736:Horses / Q000601:surgery; D007794:Lameness, Animal / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D019990:Perioperative Care / Q000662:veterinary; D011859:Radiography; D014033:Toe Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome