Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Antimicrobial treatment via joint catheter for horse joint infections
By Stewart, A A et al.·Published in Australian veterinary journal·2010·Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Antimicrobial delivery by intrasynovial catheterisation with systemic administration for equine synovial trauma and sepsis.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A group of 38 horses with joint infections or injuries were treated using a special catheter that delivered antibiotics directly into the affected joint. Most of the horses received a combination of antibiotics four times a day, and many also had their joints flushed out to help with healing. The results were promising, with 92% of the horses showing improvement and 86% able to return to pasture, while 43% were even able to go back to riding. This method of treatment appears to be effective for horses suffering from these serious conditions.
People also search for: horse joint infection treatment · equine sepsis antibiotics · horse catheter for joint injury
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To present the technique for intra-articular catheter placement and report the clinical outcomes of 38 cases of equine synovial trauma and/or infection treated with broad-spectrum antimicrobials administered via an intrasynovial catheter (ISC). DESIGN: Retrospective study. PROCEDURE: Medical records of 38 horses treated for synovial trauma and sepsis with frequent antimicrobial administration through an ISC from 1995 to 2008 were reviewed. Follow-up information was obtained via clinical re-evaluation or telephone contact with the owners. RESULTS: The majority of horses (84%) received amikacin and Timentin(R) four times daily. In addition, synovial lavage through the ISC was carried out in 27 horses (71%). Only radiological evidence of osteolysis had a significant negative impact on both lameness at the time of hospital discharge and the long-term outcome. In total, 92% of horses treated with frequent antimicrobial administration through an ISC had clinical resolution of infection. Catheter obstruction occurred in three cases, necessitating replacement or removal, and two synovial fistulae developed at sites of open drainage. The majority of horses treated had a favourable outcome, with 86% being at least pasture sound and 43% returned to riding. CONCLUSION: Septic synovial structures treated with frequent antimicrobial administration through an ISC had a good prognosis for survival and 43% returned to riding, which is consistent with the results of other studies. The use of a simple ISC should be considered when broad-spectrum intrasynovial antimicrobial administration and lavage of a septic synovial structure are indicated.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20402698/