Summary
Objectives: To determine the short- and long-term outcome for sport horses after arthroscopic
treatment of osteochondrosis of the lateral trochlear ridge of the femur.
Methods: A retrospective study was performed using the medical records of horses intended
for use as English sport horses. Outcome was obtained through telephone questionnaire.
Results: Thirty-seven horses, mainly Warmbloods, underwent arthroscopic surgery for treatment
of lateral femoral trochlear ridge osteochondrosis. Short-term outcome revealed that
27 of 37 horses had no complications. Seven horses had postoperative lameness and
effusion which eventually resolved in four horses. Long-term outcome was available
for 29 horses, of which 19 were performing to full expectations. Five horses were
athletic but at a lower level than expected, and five horses were unable to be used.
The depth of the lesion was significantly associated with short-term complications
of effusion and lameness. The depth and length of the lesion were not associated with
the long-term outcome, but involvement of structures other than the lateral trochlear
ridge (patella, medial trochlear ridge) was associated with a worse prognosis.
Clinical significance: The prognosis for sport horses following stifle arthroscopy for lateral trochlear
ridge is similar to that reported in other studies and lesions at other sites within
the stifle joint.
Keywords
Osteochondrosis - stifle - sport horse - arthroscopy
