Use of Locking Compression Plate and Locking Compression T-Plate for Surgical Arthrodesis of the Carpometacarpal and Distal Tarsal Joints in 13 Horses.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe the use of the locking compression plate (LCP) and locking compression T-plate (LCTP) in cases of carpometacarpal and distal tarsal arthrodesis for the treatment of osteoarthritis and small carpal or tarsal bone fractures, and to document clinical outcomes. STUDY DESIGN: Case records of horses treated with carpometacarpal or distal tarsal arthrodesis via internal fixation using an LCP or LCTP between 2013 and 2021 were reviewed. All cases were evaluated retrospectively. Follow-up information was gained via phone conversation with owners and referring veterinarians. RESULTS: Data were collected for 13 horses that fulfilled the study criteria. A total of eight horses underwent distal tarsal arthrodesis, and five underwent carpometacarpal arthrodesis. Twelve of thirteen horses went back to some level of athletic performance. Eight of 13 returned to the same level, while 4 of 13 returned to a lower level. Minor postoperative complications were recorded in 3 of 13 cases, with all horses suffering manageable short-term complications returning to the same level of work. Two horses suffered a major complication, with one resulting in euthanasia. CONCLUSION: Carpometacarpal and distal tarsal arthrodesis performed using the LCP and LCTP allowed all surviving horses in the study to obtain immediate postoperative comfort and eventual return to use.

Clinical use of computed tomography and surface markers to assist internal fixation within the equine hoof.

OBJECTIVE: To describe clinical use of computed tomography (CT) and hoof surface markers to facilitate internal fixation within the confines of the hoof wall. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Horses (n = 16) that had CT-guided internal fixation of the distal phalanx (DP) or distal sesamoid bone (DSB). METHODS: Drill bit entry point and direction were planned from CT image series performed on hooves with grids of barium paste dots at proposed entry and projected exit sites. Post-implantation CT images were obtained to check screw position and length as well as fracture reduction. Imaging, reduction, and surgical and general anesthesia times were evaluated. Outcome was recorded. RESULTS: Screw position and length were considered near optimal in all horses, with no consequential malposition of bits or screws. Fracture reduction was evident in all cases. Preoperative planning times (at least 2 CT image acquisitions and grid creation) ranged from 10 to 20 minutes. Surgery time ranged from 45 to 90 minutes (mean, 61 minutes) and general anesthesia time ranged from 115 to 220 minutes (mean, 171 minutes). CONCLUSIONS: The combination of CT and surface marker grids allowed accurate positioning of screws in clinical DP and DSB fractures. The technique was simple and rapid. An aiming device is useful for the technique.

Diagnostic and therapeutic arthroscopy in the standing horse.

This article describes diagnostic arthroscopy and arthroscopic management of selected lesions in the standing equine patient. Details on case selection, patient and operating room preparation, and surgical technique are presented. This information will add techniques that avoid general anesthesia to the equine surgeon's armamentarium.

Influence of a resilient, hard-carbon thin film on drilling efficiency and thermogenesis.

OBJECTIVE: To determine changes in drill bit performance attributable to application of a triaxially resilient, hard-carbon thin film. STUDY DESIGN: In vitro mechanical study. METHODS: Five matched pairs of control bits and bits with a carbon nanofilm applied were tested in equine cortical bone and a synthetic bone substrate. Thirty sequential holes were drilled with each bit. Drilling time was recorded for all holes. Maximum substrate temperature was measured with infrared thermography for holes 1, 15, and 30. Drilling time, prolongation of drilling time over successive uses, and maximum substrate temperature were compared between control and test bits in each substrate. RESULTS: Drilling time was significantly reduced with test bits in both substrates. Drilling time over successive osteotomies increased more slowly with test bits than with control bits. Test bits generated significantly lower substrate temperatures during drilling. CONCLUSIONS: Bits with the carbon nanofilm completed osteotomy faster and generated less heat than control bits. Test bits also had less degradation of drilling performance with repeated use.