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 C5/C6 or C6/C7. Method: Arthroscopy of the APJs of C5/C6 and C6/C7 was 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 C5/C6 and C6/C7 resulting 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.