Thoracic trauma in newborn foals.

Area of Science:

• Equine Neonatology
• Veterinary Radiology
• Equine Orthopedics

Background:

• Rib fractures are a known cause of mortality in foals.
• Previous reports indicate a significant incidence of fractures in foals requiring euthanasia.
• The incidence and clinical significance of thoracic trauma in liveborn foals are not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of thoracic cage asymmetry and rib fractures in newborn Thoroughbred foals.
• To identify potential contributing factors to thoracic trauma in foals.
• To document the clinical consequences of thoracic trauma in newborn foals.

Main Methods:

• Physical and radiographic examinations were performed on 263 foals within 3 days of birth.
• Thoracic cage symmetry was evaluated, and radiographs were used to diagnose rib fractures (RF) and thoracic cage asymmetry (TCA).
• Costochondral dislocation (CD) was diagnosed in cases of severe TCA without radiographic fracture evidence.

Main Results:

• Fifty-five foals (20.1%) exhibited thoracic cage asymmetry (TCA), with 9 cases diagnosed with rib fractures (RF).
• No clinical, radiographic, or ultrasonographic consequences of thoracic trauma were detected during the study or follow-up.
• Abnormal parturition history and primiparous dams were more frequent in foals with TCA; fillies had a higher incidence of birth trauma.

Conclusions:

• Thoracic trauma, including rib fractures, is common in newborn foals but often lacks clinical significance.
• Foals experiencing dystocia or born to primiparous mares are at higher risk for thoracic trauma.
• Early detection and monitoring of high-risk foals may be beneficial.