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Osteomyelitis of the patella in eight foals
Alastair T Kay1, Robert J Hunt, Dwayne H Rodgerson
1Minster Equine Clinic, York, UK. alastairtkay@hotmail.com
Objective:
To describe the characteristics of osteomyelitis lesions of the patella and to report short- and long-term outcome after treatment in 8 foals.
Study Design:
Retrospective case series.
Animals:
Foals (n = 8).
Methods:
Medical records (2003-2007) and radiographs of foals that had osteomyelitis of the patella were reviewed. Inclusion criteria included clinical, radiographic, and surgical findings consistent with osteomyelitis of the patella, and a long-term follow-up of >15 months. Information acquired included signalment, hematologic and serum biochemical profile results, clinical and radiographic signs, surgical technique and perioperative treatment. Follow-up radiographs were evaluated and outcome was determined from veterinary examination, race records, and telephone questionnaire.
Results:
Six foals survived long term (15 months-4 years); all had intralesional and systemic antimicrobial therapy, along with synovial lavage and antimicrobial medication. All were sound and achieved either yearling sales (n=3), show hunter or racing (2). Two foals died in the short term from renal failure and suppurative peritonitis secondary to cecal perforation, 1 remaining lame with suppurative osteonecrosis confirmed at necropsy. This foal was not administered intralesional antimicrobial therapy.
Conclusions:
Prompt medical and surgical therapy for osteomyelitis of the patella can result in a good prognosis for soundness and a potential athletic career. Concurrent septicemia or other systemic perinatal disease can result in prolonged therapy and delayed recovery.
