Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Osteomyelitis secondary to trauma involving the proximal end of the radius in horses: five cases (1987-2001).
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Year:
- 2003
- Authors:
- Swinebroad, Eric L et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery · United States
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
This study looked at five horses that developed a bone infection called osteomyelitis in the upper part of their radius (a bone in the front leg) after suffering trauma. The horses had been limping for 14 to 60 days, with a moderate to severe level of lameness, and they showed pain when their elbow joints were examined. X-rays showed changes in the bone, and three horses had additional tests that indicated significant issues in the same area. All horses received long-term antibiotic treatment, and one also had a special procedure to deliver medication directly into the bone. In the end, all the horses were able to return to their normal activities.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine clinical, radiographic, and scintigraphic abnormalities in and treatment and outcome of horses with trauma-induced osteomyelitis of the proximal aspect of the radius. DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: 5 horses. PROCEDURE: Data collected from the medical records included signalment; history; horse use; degree of lameness; radiographic, ultrasonographic, and scintigraphic findings; treatment; and outcome. RESULTS: Duration of lameness prior to referral ranged from 14 to 60 days. Mean severity of lameness was grade 3 of 5, and all horses had a single limb affected. All horses had signs of pain during elbow joint manipulation and digital palpation over the lateral aspect of the proximal end of the radius. Radiographic lesions consisted of periosteal proliferation, osteolysis, and subchondral bone lysis. Scintigraphy in 3 horses revealed intense pharmaceutical uptake diffusely involving the proximal end of the radius. Two horses had sepsis of the elbow joint. All horses were treated with antimicrobials long-term; 1 horse was also treated by local perfusion of the radial medullary cavity through an indwelling cannulated screw. At follow-up, all horses had returned to their previous function. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggest that osteomyelitis of the proximal end of the radius can result from a traumatic injury to the antebrachium. Because lesions may be an extension of septic arthritis, a thorough examination of the wound area and elbow joint is recommended. Prolonged systemic antimicrobial treatment can result in a successful outcome.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12930087/