Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Management of paracondylar process fracture in three horses.
- Journal:
- Equine veterinary journal
- Year:
- 2024
- Authors:
- Beldeanu, Sabina et al.
- Affiliation:
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies · United Kingdom
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
This study looked at three horses with fractures in a specific part of the skull called the paracondylar process, which can cause symptoms like headshaking, neck pain, and even issues with movement or behavior. Two of the horses had fractures that weren't healing properly; one showed signs of neck pain and headshaking, while the other had a fracture found during an investigation for poor performance. The third horse had a different type of fracture and experienced sudden weakness in its face. All three horses were diagnosed using advanced imaging called computed tomography, and while some were treated without surgery, one horse needed surgery to remove the fractured piece, which helped it recover quickly without major complications. Overall, the study suggests that these fractures should be considered when horses show certain symptoms, and that surgery can be an effective treatment option.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Fractures of the paracondylar process of the occipital bone may cause headshaking, neck pain and neurologic deficits. The condition is being recognised more frequently with increasing availability of computed tomography. However, to date only limited information is available as to presentation, treatment, surgical approach and outcome. OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical signs, imaging findings, treatment, surgical approach and outcome in three horses diagnosed with paracondylar process fracture. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. METHODS: Clinical records and diagnostic images of affected cases were reviewed. RESULTS: Two cases had ventral nonunion fractures-one of these presented with neck pain, headshaking and behavioural changes, while in the other the fracture was a suspected incidental finding in a case of poor performance. A third case with a more dorsal fracture presented with acute facial nerve paralysis. Diagnosis was by computed tomography in all cases, although imaging of ventral fractures by radiography was found to be feasible. Where clinical signs could be associated confidently with the fracture, conservative management resulted in improvement but not complete resolution. Repeated recurrence of clinical signs after prolonged periods of remission necessitated surgical removal in one case, which was readily accomplished with the aid of ultrasound guidance, and led to rapid resolution of clinical signs without significant post-operative complications. The surgical approach is described. MAIN LIMITATIONS: Limited follow-up was available. CONCLUSIONS: Paracondylar process fracture should be considered as a differential diagnosis for headshaking, neck pain, poor performance and facial paresis, and is a justification for performing computed tomography in such cases. A multi-disciplinary approach is beneficial due to the potential for orthopaedic, neurologic, ophthalmologic and behavioural clinical signs, with additional need for expertise in diagnostic imaging and pain management. Surgical fragment removal should be considered for ventral fractures.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39023084/