Osteochondral fragments in the metacarpo- and metatarsophalangeal joint and their clinical importance

The radiographic evaluation of the fetlock joint as part of a lameness or prepurchase examination often reveals osteochondral fragmentation. These fragments can either be causing lameness or have no clinical importance at the time of examination. However, they can cause lameness at a later stage. An appropriate analysis of the situation requires a correct assessment of the fragment type and an up-to-date knowledge of their possible clinical importance. In this overview, the most common types of fetlock fragments, such as dorsoproximal first phalanx (PI) and proximal synovial pad fragments, as well as fragmentation on the proximal palmar/plantar border of PI and of the sesamoid bones are discussed. A few cases of uncommon large fragmentation on the abaxial borders of P1 are included. Fetlock fractures, obviously causing lameness, such as dorsofrontal fractures of the proximal phalanx, distal metacarpal/metatarsal and sesamoid bone fractures, are not dealt with in this review

Acute instability of the nuchal ligament following cervical neuromuscular dysfunction in a dressage horse

A ten-year-old Warmblood dressage gelding was presented with acute instability of the nuchal ligament after paddock turnout. Based on the clinical signs, orthopedic and neurologic examination, diagnostic imaging and electromyography, cervical neuromuscular dysfunction of the M. obliquus capitis caudalis on the right side of the neck was diagnosed. Conservative treat-ment including steroidal anti-inflammatory medication in combination with oral supplementation with vitamin B1 and box rest resulted in complete recovery of the horse within six months

Anatomy and imaging of the equine metacarpophalangeal/metatarsophalangeal joint

The metacarpo-/metatarsophalangeal joint is a high motion joint and is therefore prone to be injured. Lameness attributable to the metacarpo-/metatarsophalangeal joint is a frequent cause of early retirement from athletic activity in horses and should therefore be detected as early as possible. The basis of the examination for lameness remains the clinical examination, including a complete motion examination in which the lameness is unambiguously localized by means of local anesthesia. A combination of radiography and ultrasonography is often sufficient for visualizing the lesions. However, in the absence of clear radiological or ultrasonographical findings, more advanced imaging modalities, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are necessary. The choice of technique largely depends on the tissue characteristics of the expected lesion, the cost restraints of the owner, and the willingness to take the risk of general anesthesia