Although the anatomy of the ovine stifle joint is similar to that of the human knee joint, a number of unique features were identified. These included the presence of the tendon of the m. extensor digitorum longus on the craniolateral aspect of the stifle joint, the absence of a cranial meniscofemoral ligament (ligament of Humphrey) in the caudal joint space, and attachment of the patellar tendon to the cranial pole of the patella (rather than to the distal pole, as in humans). The implications of these differences are discussed with reference to the suitability of the ovine stifle as a surgical model for the human knee joint.

Six mares had ovariohysterectomy performed for chronic pyometra associated with cervical abnormalities, uterine neoplasia, or removal of a macerated fetus. Ovariohysterectomy was performed through a ventral midline incision with access to the ovarian and uterine vessels aided by traction on the uterus and retraction of abdominal viscera. Abdominal pain, the most common complication after surgery, occurred in four mares but resolved within 36 hours. Peritonitis occurred in two mares; one mare was subsequently euthanatized. Other complications that resolved with treatment included infection of the uterine stump (two mares), abdominal hemorrhage (one mare), diarrhea (one mare), and incisional infection (one mare). Complications after surgery can be reduced by removing as much of the uterus as possible, minimizing peritoneal contamination with uterine contents, and providing a secure closure of the caudal reproductive tract.

Results indicated that transfixation casting can be successful in managing fractures distal to the carpus or tarsus in horses. This technique is most suitable for comminuted fractures of the proximal phalanx but can be used for third metacarpal, third metatarsal, or middle phalanx fractures, with or without internal fixation.

Antibiotics were delivered to chronically infected tissues by regional limb perfusion in three horses with osteomyelitis associated with orthopedic implants. Two infections were resolved with implants in place; in one, a sequestrum was resorbed. In one horse, regional antibiotic perfusion was applied to treat progressively worsening bone infection after initial implants loosened and were removed.

On standing horses, IVRLP performed simultaneously with joint lavage resulted in negligible loss of amikacin in the egress lavage fluids. The Esmarch tourniquet was more effective in preventing loss of amikacin from the distal portion of the limb, easier to use, and less expensive than the pneumatic tourniquet.

Results suggest that enforced rest without surgical fixation can be an effective therapeutic option for horses with a slab fracture of the central or third tarsal bone, even if athletic function is expected.

No abstract

Joint contamination with hair and tissue debris will be decreased by specific needle insertion techniques. Decreased contamination of joints may reduce the frequency of joint infections after arthrocentesis.