Lameness caused by a chronic metatarsal haematoma secondary to repetitive interference injury in a Standardbred racehorse

Abstract

Summary This report describes a case of chronic haematoma formation secondary to repeated hindlimb interference injuries in a 4‐year‐old Standardbred trotter racehorse. Physical examination, radiography and ultrasonographic investigations identified a firm, encapsulated soft tissue mass on the medial aspect of the left mid‐metatarsal region. After surgical removal, histopathological examination confirmed a chronic haematoma. The horse responded well to surgical management of the condition. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of surgical intervention to resolve the common problem of repetitive interference injuries in Standardbred racehorses.