Plate fixation for management of plantar instability of the distal tarsus/proximal metatarsus in 5 horses

Abstract

Plate fixation provides adequate strength and stability for successful management of injuries that result in plantar instability of the tarsus and proximal metatarsus.

Tarsal luxation in the horse: Management options and challenges

“…In these repairs, the use of cortical or locking screws that span the talocalcaneal articulation was shown to have no negative effect with regards to an unsatisfactory outcome. In the case series by McCormick and Watkins (), three out of the five horses managed with internal fixation, as well as both horses managed similarly in our report, were able to return to a variable amount of riding exercise and athletic performance (Abuja et al . ).…”

“…In full size horses, the use of internal fixation for these luxations appears to offer the best chance at a successful outcome for pasture soundness and potential return to light athletic work (Abuja et al . ; McCormick and Watkins ). In cases where plate fixation is elected, the placement of a locking compression plate, limited contact dynamic compression plate or a dynamic compression plate in the plantarolateral aspect of the tarsus, using the entire length of the calcaneus provides a very strong and stable construct (Abuja et al .…”

“…In cases where plate fixation is elected, the placement of a locking compression plate, limited contact dynamic compression plate or a dynamic compression plate in the plantarolateral aspect of the tarsus, using the entire length of the calcaneus provides a very strong and stable construct (Abuja et al . ; McCormick and Watkins ). This repair option has the added advantage of significantly decreasing the time that a full limb cast is needed for added support, thus reducing the chances of cast‐related complications such as sores and rupture of the peroneus tertius (McCormick and Watkins ).…”

“…; McCormick and Watkins ). This repair option has the added advantage of significantly decreasing the time that a full limb cast is needed for added support, thus reducing the chances of cast‐related complications such as sores and rupture of the peroneus tertius (McCormick and Watkins ). In these repairs, the use of cortical or locking screws that span the talocalcaneal articulation was shown to have no negative effect with regards to an unsatisfactory outcome.…”

Reduction and external coaptation as successful treatment for tarsocrural joint luxation in an Arabian mare

“…With open reduction and internal fixation, dynamic compression plates or locking compression plates can be used. The plates bridge the distal tarsal joints and if accompanied by removal of cartilage from the affected joints, arthrodesis can be achieved (McCormick and Watkins ; Keller et al . ).…”