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Extensor tendon lacerations in horses: 50 cases (1982-1988)
J K Belknap1, G M Baxter, F A Nickels
1Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Extensor tendon lacerations in horses, primarily affecting hind limbs, show a good prognosis for athletic soundness. Over 70% of treated horses returned to athletic function, highlighting effective wound management and coaptation strategies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Surgery
- Equine Sports Medicine
Background:
- Extensor tendon lacerations are significant injuries in horses, impacting athletic performance.
- Understanding the clinical features and prognosis is crucial for effective treatment and owner expectations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review medical records of horses with extensor tendon lacerations.
- To determine clinical features and prognosis for athletic soundness after treatment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 50 horses (53 limbs) treated for extensor tendon lacerations between 1982 and 1988.
- Analysis of injury location, tendon involvement, wound management, coaptation techniques, and follow-up data for athletic soundness.
Main Results:
- Eighty-nine percent of injuries involved hind limbs; long digital extensor tendon was most commonly affected.
- 73% of horses returned to athletic soundness at least 1 year post-injury.
- Prognosis varied by specific hind limb tendons injured, ranging from 62% to 80% return to athletic soundness.
Conclusions:
- Extensor tendon lacerations in horses, particularly hind limb injuries, have a favorable prognosis for return to athletic soundness with appropriate management.
- Wound management and coaptation strategies significantly influence outcomes.
- Further research on forelimb injuries is limited due to small sample size.