Segmental ostectomy of the second and fourth metacarpal and metatarsal bones in horses: 17 cases (1993–2002)

Abstract

Results suggest that horses with a complicated injury of the proximal, middle, or distal portion of the second or fourth metacarpal or metatarsal bone may be successfully treated by means of segmental ostectomy of the abnormal portion of the bone.

Splint bone fractures in the horse: a retrospective study 1992–2001

“…The prognosis is generally good and complications are rare, unless other abnormalities are present (Bowman and Fackelman 1982;Allen and White 1987) in particular suspensory desmitis . Segmental ostectomy of the splint bones has also been described for midbody fractures with good results (Jenson et al 2004). Fractures of the proximal third of the splint bones are the most difficult to treat.…”

A retrospective study comparing conservative and surgical treatments of open comminuted fractures of the fourth metatarsal bone in horses

“…The longer time period (5 months) to return to full work in horses in this study with segmental ostectomy is surprising given the reduced invasiveness of the procedure. All 17 horses in the study of Jenson et al (2004), with fractures in varying positions on the 4 splint bones, returned to full work with good to excellent cosmetic appearances.…”

“…The stability of the distal segment of the splint bone was infrequently documented in this group of horses. Horses with stable distal metatarsal IVs are candidates for the less invasive method of segmental ostectomy (Jenson et al 2004). The longer time period (5 months) to return to full work in horses in this study with segmental ostectomy is surprising given the reduced invasiveness of the procedure.…”

“…Metatarsal IV is predisposed to fractures due to its superficial and prominent position which increase its susceptibility to trauma particularly kick injuries from other horses (Bowman and Fackelman 1982;Richardson 1990;Doran et al 1991;Baxter et al 1992;Du Preez 1994). Controversy exists regarding the most appropriate treatment of open fractures of the proximal third of metatarsal IV (Allen and White 1987;Harrison et al 1991;Doran 1994;Du Preez 1994;Ray and Baxter 1995;Jenson et al 2004). Surgical treatments require general anaesthesia, which is reported to be fatal in 1 in 100 horses (Johnston et al 1995).…”

Metacarpus/metatarsus

“…Some surgeons prefer segmental ostectomy (leaving the proximal and distal segments intact), which can be less invasive and offers a prognosis comparable to partial ostectomy. 90 …”