Evaluation of the caudal cervical articular process joints by using a needle arthroscope in standing horses
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Published on: February 25, 2022
Marcos Pérez-Nogués1, Betsy Vaughan1, Kathryn L Phillips1
1Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California.
Objective:
To determine the safety and efficacy of caudal cervical articular process joint arthroscopy by using needle arthroscopy in standing sedated horses.
Study Design:
Prospective experimental case series.
Animals:
Six adult horses.
Methods:
Three horses underwent exploration of bilateral C5-6 vertebral articular process joints and three bilateral C6-7 articular process joints by using a 1.2 × 65-mm needle arthroscope under standing sedation. The 16-gauge arthroscopic trocar and canula assembly was inserted in the desired articular process joint under ultrasonographic guidance without distention of the joint.
Results:
All 12 articular process joints were successfully explored. Entering the joint on the first attempt was achieved in 10 of 12 joints. A craniodorsal approach for arthroscope insertion allowed evaluation of the most cranial aspect of the articular cartilage surface. Triangulation with a spinal needle was determined to be difficult and resulted in a limited space for movement.
Conclusion:
Needle arthroscopy of the caudal cervical facet joints was performed safely and efficiently in standing sedated horses.
Clinical Significance:
Standing cervical articular process needle arthroscopy is a minimal morbidity technique with the potential to be an advantageous technique for the diagnosis and treatment of cervical articular process pathology.
