Impinging and Overriding Spinous Processes in Horses: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Equine Orthopedics
• Veterinary Sports Medicine
• Equine Surgery

Background:

• Overriding spinous processes (ORSPs), commonly called kissing spine syndrome, is a skeletal abnormality in horses.
• It is characterized by narrowed interspinous spaces and overlapping spinous processes, primarily affecting thoracic vertebrae.
• ORSPs are frequently linked to chronic back pain and reduced performance in sport horses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on overriding spinous processes (ORSPs) in horses.
• To evaluate existing diagnostic and treatment approaches for ORSPs.
• To identify knowledge gaps and suggest future research directions for ORSPs.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search on ORSPs in equine medicine.
• Analysis of studies focusing on diagnosis, clinical signs, and treatment outcomes.
• Synthesis of information regarding pathogenesis and incidence of ORSPs.

Main Results:

• The incidence of pain associated with ORSPs is not well-established, with poor correlation between imaging and clinical signs.
• Various conservative and surgical treatments exist, but the underlying pathogenesis of ORSPs remains poorly understood.
• Current understanding of ORSPs is limited, complicating diagnosis and treatment efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Improved understanding of ORSP pathogenesis is crucial for developing targeted diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
• Further research is needed to clarify the incidence of pain and improve diagnostic accuracy for ORSPs.
• Addressing knowledge gaps will enhance the management of kissing spine syndrome in horses.