Osteochondral chip fractures of the palmar/plantar aspect of the middle phalanx in the horse: 5 cases (1991-1994)

Abstract

Osteochondral chip fractures of the middle phalanx in the horse are infrequent and usually affect the dorsal aspect of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Such fractures are even less frequently encountered in the palmar/plantar aspect of the middle phalanx, which generally cause lameness and call for surgical management. In this report five cases of osteochondral chip fractures of the middle phalanx in 5 horses (2 Standardbreds, 2 Show Jumpers and one Thoroughbred) are described: in two cases, the fragment originated from the palmar/plantar proximal border of the middle phalanx in the proximal interphalangeal joint; in one case from the proximal lateral palmar eminence; in two cases from the distal lateral palmar/plantar articular border in the distal interphalangeal joint. The surgical technique was more complex in regard to the fragments located in the distal interphalangeal joint. Removal of the fragments by arthrotomy is described - the operation involved removing part of the lateral cartilage of the distal phalanx. Of these 5 surgically treated cases, 4 returned successfully to the previous performance level, while one was lost for long term follow up.