Osteomyelitis of the patella in eight foals.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the characteristics of osteomyelitis lesions of the patella and to report short- and long-term outcome after treatment in 8 foals.


METHODS
Retrospective case series.


METHODS
Foals (n = 8).


METHODS
Medical records (2003-2007) and radiographs of foals that had osteomyelitis of the patella were reviewed. Inclusion criteria included clinical, radiographic, and surgical findings consistent with osteomyelitis of the patella, and a long-term follow-up of >15 months. Information acquired included signalment, hematologic and serum biochemical profile results, clinical and radiographic signs, surgical technique and perioperative treatment. Follow-up radiographs were evaluated and outcome was determined from veterinary examination, race records, and telephone questionnaire.


RESULTS
Six foals survived long term (15 months-4 years); all had intralesional and systemic antimicrobial therapy, along with synovial lavage and antimicrobial medication. All were sound and achieved either yearling sales (n=3), show hunter or racing (2). Two foals died in the short term from renal failure and suppurative peritonitis secondary to cecal perforation, 1 remaining lame with suppurative osteonecrosis confirmed at necropsy. This foal was not administered intralesional antimicrobial therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
Prompt medical and surgical therapy for osteomyelitis of the patella can result in a good prognosis for soundness and a potential athletic career. Concurrent septicemia or other systemic perinatal disease can result in prolonged therapy and delayed recovery.
Minster Equine Clinic, York, UK. alastairtkay@hotmail.com
Alastair T
AT
Kay
Robert J
RJ
Hunt
Dwayne H
DH
Rodgerson
Michael A
MA
Spirito
Elizabeth M
EM
Santschi
Richard J
RJ
Payne
D000818:Animals; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D006736:Horses; D008297:Male; D010019:Osteomyelitis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D010329:Patella / Q000473:pathology*; D012189:Retrospective Studies
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents