EQUINE | Abstracts
Dorsoproximal P1 Fragments
in UK Thoroughbreds
Frequency distribution of osteochondral fragmentation of the
dorsoproximal articular surface of the proximal phalanx in
racing Thoroughbreds in the UK
R. Walsh
M.R.W. Smith and
I.M. Wright
study.
Background
Osteochondral fragmentation of the dorsoproximal
margin of the proximal phalanx is commonly
recognised in racing Thoroughbreds. Frequency
distribution has been documented in racing
Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses in the USA and
in European Warmbloods but no data have been
published from the UK. Concurrent intra‐articular soft
tissue lesions and radiographic accuracy of fragment
distribution in racing Thoroughbreds have not
previously been reported.
Objectives
To document frequency distribution of dorsoproximal
fragmentation of the proximal phalanx in a UK
population of racing Thoroughbreds and to compare
this with published data. To document concurrent
intra‐articular lesions identified arthroscopically and
radiographic accuracy of fragment distribution.
Study design
A retrospective single centre‐based, observational
Methods
Surgical reports and radiographs of all racing
Thoroughbreds that underwent arthroscopic surgery
for removal of fragmentation from the dorsoproximal
margin of the proximal phalanx at Newmarket Equine
Hospital between 2011 and 2015 were reviewed.
Results
Two hundred and forty‐two (85.8%) horses were in
or being prepared for flat racing. Osteochondral
fragmentation of the dorsoproximal aspect of the
proximal phalanx was present in 428 fetlock joints of
282 horses, consisting of 194 (45.3%) left and 188
(43.9%) right metacarpophalangeal joints, and 20
(4.7%) left and 26 (6.1%) right metatarsophalangeal
joints. Fragmentation was located dorsomedially in
316 (73.8%), dorsolaterally in 32 (7.5%) and biaxially
in 80 (18.7%) joints. Concurrent soft tissue lesions
were identified in 168 (39.3%) joints. Radiographic
evidence of fragmentation was visible in 320 joints
(74.8%).
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/evj.12795/full
• Volume 20 Issue 1 | April 2018 •
15