Arthroscopic removal of osteochondral fragments of the cervical articular process joints in three horses.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To report arthroscopic osteochondral fragment removal from the equine cervical spine articular process joints (APJs) including long-term follow-up. STUDY DESIGN: Case series. ANIMALS: Three Warmblood horses with forelimb lameness and/or reduced range of motion of the cervical spine with osteochondral fragments between the cervical vertebrae C/Cor C/C. METHOD: Arthroscopy of the APJs of C/Cand C/Cwas performed under general anesthesia. Following endoscopic evaluation of the joints, osteochondral fragments were removed using a rongeur. RESULTS: All horses recovered from anesthesia with no anesthetic or minor postanesthetic complications. One horse needed a second procedure for fragment removal. Fourteen to 31 months post-surgery the horses were sound for their intended use and neurological examination revealed no abnormalities. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic removal of osteochondral fragments can be performed safely in the equine cervical APJs of C/Cand C/Cresulting in a favorable long-term outcome. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Arthroscopic removal is a valid option for horses showing clinical signs that can be attributed to osteochondral fragments in the APJs of the neck.