Osteochondral Fragmentation in the Synovial Pad of the Fetlock in Warmblood Horses

Abstract

Large synovial pad fragments in Warmblood horses can be associated with synovial and cartilage abnormalities, but further studies are warranted to determine their origin and clinical importance.

Introduction

“…Declercq et al (2009) reported on fragmentation of the dorsal margin of the proximal phalanx in young Warmblood horses in which the majority underwent surgery for prophylactic reasons or to remove radiologic blemishes, or both. Osteochondral fragments within the dorsal plica have also been reported in Warmblood horses (Declercq et al, 2008). Impact fractures of the proximal phalanx in a filly have been described by Cullimore et al (2009) and the authors of this text have also seen similar lesions in the distal metacarpus.…”

Late-diagnosed large osteochondral fracture of the lateral femoral condyle in an adolescent

“…Although chondral fragments are known to survive in an intra-articular environment because they are permeated by nutrient synovial fluid [21], this is not well established for bony fragments. Therefore, at 3 months from its detachment, we cannot exclude that the osteochondral fragment contained remodeling or disrupted trabecular bone [22,23]. However, once the fragment is fixed, this thin bony part is considered to be quickly resorbed by creeping substitution [4].…”

Diagnostic and Surgical Arthroscopy of the Metacarpophalangeal and Metatarsophalangeal Joints

“…These have been described by Declercq et al (2008). The relationship (if any) between the two conditions has not yet been determined.…”

“…The relationship (if any) between the two conditions has not yet been determined. Declercq et al (2008) reported fragments in the dorsal plica (proximal synovial pad) of 127 joints in 104 Warmblood horses; 20 horses had 2, 1 horse had 4, and the remainder had 1 joint affected. Fifty (40%) were in forelimbs and 77 (60%) were in hindlimbs.…”