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Peter H.l. Ramzan - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • a novel radiographic projection for the detection of sagittal plane slab fracture of the equine third carpal bone
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2019
    Co-Authors: Peter H.l. Ramzan
    Abstract:

    BACKGROUND: Some sagittal plane fractures of the equine third carpal bone are difficult to detect with conventional radiographic projections. OBJECTIVES: To describe a novel radiographic projection for the detection of sagittal plane slab fractures of the equine third carpal bone. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study of radiological records. METHODS: From a first opinion Thoroughbred racehorse caseload, cases were included for analysis if sagittal fracture of the third carpal bone was evident on a dorsoproximal lateral-palmarodistal medial oblique (DPrL-PDiMO) projection of the distal row of carpal bones and not visible on the standard dorsoproximal-dorsodistal oblique (DPr-DDiO) projection. RESULTS: Eight cases in which radiological identification of fracture was dependent on the DPrL-PDiMO projection were identified from August 2013 to August 2017. MAIN LIMITATIONS: Unblinded study. CONCLUSIONS: Conventional radiographic projections can fail to detect some serious fractures of the equine third carpal bone. The DPrL-PDiMO projection has a role in the investigation of suspected carpal injury in Racehorses.

  • subclinical ultrasonographic abnormalities of the suspensory ligament branch of the athletic horse a survey of 60 thoroughbred Racehorses
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2013
    Co-Authors: Peter H.l. Ramzan, L Palmer, R S Dallas, M C Shepherd
    Abstract:

    Summary Reasons for performing study: Ultrasonographic (US) abnormalities of the suspensory ligament branch (SLB) have been poorly investigated but can have considerable impact on market value and career path when encountered in athletic horses. There is a need for determination of the prevalence and relationship to clinical injury of these US abnormalities in the Thoroughbred (TB) racehorse. Objectives: To establish the prevalence of, and the repeatability of an US grading system for, subclinical US abnormalities of the forelimb SLB in a population of UK TB flat Racehorses. Methods: Ultrasonographic assessment of the forelimb SLBs of 60 TB Racehorses free from history and clinical indication of SLB desmopathy in a single UK training yard was performed. Images were viewed independently by 2 blinded observers and graded for US abnormality. Interobserver agreement was assessed using Cohen's kappa statistic with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results: Prevalence of horses with subclinical US abnormality of the forelimb SLB of moderate severity was 6.7%. Medial branches were overrepresented. Inter observer agreement was substantial for US grade (kappa = 0.743; 95% CI 0.652–0.834) and almost perfect for appearance of sesamoid bone at ligament insertion (kappa = 0.817; 95% CI 0.66–0.98). Conclusions: The study reveals that a proportion of TB Racehorses in flat training free from history or clinical signs of SLB injury have US abnormalities that could negatively impact on market value and career path. Potential relevance: Clinicians should be aware that US abnormalities of the SLB may not always be related to clinical desmopathy. Further longitudinal studies are required to determine whether such findings are predictive for future injury.

  • the efficacy of dantrolene sodium in controlling exertional rhabdomyolysis in the thoroughbred racehorse
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2010
    Co-Authors: J G T Edwards, R C Pilsworth, J R Newton, Peter H.l. Ramzan, M C Shepherd
    Abstract:

    Summary Reasons for performing study: Dantrolene sodium (Dantrium) has been used extensively for the treatment of myopathies in man and anecdotal evidence suggests it is of clinical benefit in the control of exercise-induced rhabdomyolysis (ER) in Racehorses, although data to support this are currently lacking. Objectives: To investigate the efficacy of oral dantrolene sodium in controlling ER in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial involving 77 Thoroughbred Racehorses in Newmarket, UK. Methods: Horses were treated on 2 occasions 1 week apart, with treatment days coinciding with a return to exercise following 2 days box rest on each occasion. For the first treatment, each horse was randomly selected to receive either 800 mg dantrolene sodium or a colour- matched placebo administered orally 1 h before exercise. This was followed by crossover to the other treatment on the second occasion, with each horse thereby acting as its own control. Degree of ER was assessed using rising serum creatine kinase (CK) levels, by subtracting pre-exercise blood CK levels from those measured in 6 h post exercise blood samples. For each horse, the difference in change between pre- and post exercise CK values between placebo and dantrolene treatments was calculated, with positive values indicating a greater rise with placebo than with dantrolene sodium treatment. Results: The overall mean difference for all horses was +104.8 iu/l and the null hypothesis, that there was no true difference in non-normally distributed post exercise rises in CK values between placebo and dantrolene treatments, was rejected (P = 0.0013) using the nonparametric Wilcoxon signed rank test. Additionally, no horses given dantrolene sodium showed clinical signs of ER, whereas 3 horses given the placebo developed ER following exercise. The incidence of ER in the study was 4% (3/77). Conclusions: The results confirmed that oral administration of dantrolene sodium, 1 h before exercise, had a statistically significant effect on reducing the difference between pre - and post exercise plasma CK levels compared with a placebo in the same animals, and preventing clinical ER in susceptible individuals. Potential relevance: This study suggested that dantrolene sodium is of use in controlling ER in the Thoroughbred racehorse. Further investigation into pre- and post exercise myoplasmic calcium levels and the repeat of the study late in the season when horses receive a much higher energy ration and more strenuous exercise would appear to be warranted.

  • transverse stress fracture of the distal diaphysis of the third metacarpus in six thoroughbred Racehorses
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2009
    Co-Authors: Peter H.l. Ramzan
    Abstract:

    Summary Fractures involving the fetlock region are encountered commonly in Thoroughbred Racehorses. Condylar fractures of the distal metacarpus/metatarsus and mid-sagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx account for the majority of fetlock injuries during both racing and training and clinical features, management and outcome of these injuries have been well described. Transverse fractures of the distal diaphysis of the third metacarpus, however, are seldom observed and have received little attention in the literature. This paper describes clinical and radiological findings associated with 6 cases encountered in first opinion racehorse practice over a 3 year period. Transverse third metacarpal fractures vary in presentation but typically have clinical signs referable to the fetlock region and may, on occasion, be life-threatening. They are therefore an important differential diagnosis when a fracture involving the fetlock is suspected.

S E Powell - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • unicortical condylar fracture of the thoroughbred fetlock 45 cases 2006 2013
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2015
    Co-Authors: P. H. L. Ramzan, L Palmer, S E Powell
    Abstract:

    Summary Reasons for performing study Fracture of the metacarpal/tarsal condyle is usually preceded by prodromal pathology. Early recognition of injury is desirable to minimise the risk of serious breakdown; however, the clinical and diagnostic characteristics of unicortical condylar fractures have been poorly documented to date. Objectives To describe the clinical, imaging and outcome features of Racehorses in first opinion practice diagnosed with short unicortical fracture of the metacarpal/tarsal condyle. Study design Retrospective case series. Methods All flat Racehorses sustaining a unicortical condylar fracture while under the primary care of a single first opinion UK veterinary practice (2006–2013) were identified from imaging records and histories analysed for clinical presentation, lesion location, treatment, rehabilitation guidance and outcome. Results Forty-five cases were identified during the period of study. Forelimb injuries predominated (35/45, 77.8%). Mean age of cases was 3.4 ± 1.3 years. Palpable clinical abnormality referable to the fetlock region was not a feature. The majority (35/45, 77.8%) of injuries were diagnosed with radiography (flexed dorsopalmar/plantar projection), with the remainder requiring magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for diagnosis. Seven horses underwent surgery either at the time of original diagnosis or following reinjury. Twenty-eight of 30 horses (93.3%), not retired for unrelated reasons, returned to racing, with 5 (16.7%) conservatively managed horses sustaining reinjury at a median of 305 days. Misdiagnosis resulted in progression to catastrophic fracture in 2 cases. Conclusions Clinical findings associated with unicortical condylar fractures can be mild and appropriate diagnostic imaging is necessary for injury detection. Failure to detect injury can lead to catastrophic fracture. Most cases respond to conservative management and return to racing, but risk of reinjury merits consideration of surgery in selected cases. Veterinary vigilance and timely intervention has the potential to considerably reduce the incidence of complete condylar fracture of the fetlock in the racehorse. The Summary is available in Chinese – see Supporting information.

  • Unicortical condylar fracture of the Thoroughbred fetlock: 45 cases (2006–2013)
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2014
    Co-Authors: P. H. L. Ramzan, L Palmer, S E Powell
    Abstract:

    Summary Reasons for performing study Fracture of the metacarpal/tarsal condyle is usually preceded by prodromal pathology. Early recognition of injury is desirable to minimise the risk of serious breakdown; however, the clinical and diagnostic characteristics of unicortical condylar fractures have been poorly documented to date. Objectives To describe the clinical, imaging and outcome features of Racehorses in first opinion practice diagnosed with short unicortical fracture of the metacarpal/tarsal condyle. Study design Retrospective case series. Methods All flat Racehorses sustaining a unicortical condylar fracture while under the primary care of a single first opinion UK veterinary practice (2006–2013) were identified from imaging records and histories analysed for clinical presentation, lesion location, treatment, rehabilitation guidance and outcome. Results Forty-five cases were identified during the period of study. Forelimb injuries predominated (35/45, 77.8%). Mean age of cases was 3.4 ± 1.3 years. Palpable clinical abnormality referable to the fetlock region was not a feature. The majority (35/45, 77.8%) of injuries were diagnosed with radiography (flexed dorsopalmar/plantar projection), with the remainder requiring magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for diagnosis. Seven horses underwent surgery either at the time of original diagnosis or following reinjury. Twenty-eight of 30 horses (93.3%), not retired for unrelated reasons, returned to racing, with 5 (16.7%) conservatively managed horses sustaining reinjury at a median of 305 days. Misdiagnosis resulted in progression to catastrophic fracture in 2 cases. Conclusions Clinical findings associated with unicortical condylar fractures can be mild and appropriate diagnostic imaging is necessary for injury detection. Failure to detect injury can lead to catastrophic fracture. Most cases respond to conservative management and return to racing, but risk of reinjury merits consideration of surgery in selected cases. Veterinary vigilance and timely intervention has the potential to considerably reduce the incidence of complete condylar fracture of the fetlock in the racehorse. The Summary is available in Chinese – see Supporting information.

  • low field standing magnetic resonance imaging findings of the metacarpo metatarsophalangeal joint of racing thoroughbreds with lameness localised to the region a retrospective study of 131 horses
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2012
    Co-Authors: S E Powell
    Abstract:

    Summary Reasons for performing study: The metacarpo/metatarsophalangeal (MCP/MTP) joint is a common site of lameness in the Thoroughbred racehorse. Radiographs may fail to show pathology consistent with the degree of lameness. With a high incidence of stress fractures occurring in the distal third metacarpal/metatarsal (MC3/MT3) condyles and proximal phalanx, a definitive diagnosis as to the nature of the pathology is essential. Objective: To describe the low-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in Thoroughbred Racehorses with MCP/MTP joint pain scanned under standing sedation. Methods: The MR images and clinical records of all Thoroughbred Racehorses undergoing MRI of the MCP/MTP joint between October 2006 and August 2010 were reviewed. A total of 168 joints from 131 horses were selected for inclusion. The MRI finding considered most significant in the lame (or lamest) limb was noted. Results: Diagnostic quality images were obtainable in 97.8% of horses. The most common finding was palmar/plantar osteochondral disease in MC3/MT3 (54.9% of horses). Incomplete condylar fracture was diagnosed in 19.8% of horses, with the lateral condyle predominating. An incomplete sagittal fracure of P1 was diagnosed in 14.5% of horses and 11.4% were diagnosed with ‘dorsal joint disease’. Other findings included transverse MC3 stress fractures (1.5%), soft tissue injuries (12.2%) and proximal phalangeal ‘contusions’ (3.8%). No significant bone/soft tissue injury was detected in 5.4% of cases. Conclusions: Standing MRI can detect a spectrum of disease within the MCP/MTP joints of Racehorses. The procedure is well tolerated and may lead to a definitive diagnosis where radiographic imaging is inconclusive. Potential relevance: A total of 35.8% of cases had MRI findings consistent with fracture pathology, which could not be confirmed radiographically at the time of the MRI examination. This has important therapeutic and prognostic implications and may help to prevent catastrophic injury.

  • Standing MRI to detect proximal metacarpal lameness in Racehorses
    Veterinary Record, 2010
    Co-Authors: S E Powell, M C Shepherd, P. H. L. Ramzan, M. J. Head, G. I. Baldwin, W. N. Steven
    Abstract:

    THE proximal metacarpal region is a common site of origin of lameness in Racehorses. MRI has been hypothesised to offer advantages over radiography and ultrasound in its investigation. This study evaluated the clinical and imaging features of cases of lameness in Racehorses arising from the proximal

Susan M. Stover - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Characteristics of complete tibial fractures in California Racehorses.
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2020
    Co-Authors: Monika Samol, Rick Arthur, Francisco A. Uzal, Ashley E. Hill, Susan M. Stover
    Abstract:

    BACKGROUND Tibial fractures cause ~3% of racehorse deaths. Pre-existing stress fractures have been associated with multiple racing and training fractures, but not complete tibial fractures. OBJECTIVES To describe racehorse tibial fractures and compare signalment and exercise histories of affected and control Racehorses. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective analysis of necropsy reports. METHODS Racehorses that had a complete tibial fracture (1990-2018) were retrospectively reviewed. Signalment and exercise histories of affected horses were compared to 1) Racehorses that died because of non-tibial musculoskeletal injuries or 2) non-musculoskeletal cause, and 3) age, sex, event matched control Racehorses. Tibial fracture prevalence was described relative to California Racehorses that had at least one official work or race. Age, sex, and limb distributions were compared between affected and control horses (Chi-square, Fisher's Exact test). Exercise history data were reduced to counts and rates of official high speed works, races and layups (periods without an official high speed work or race > 60 days). Variables were compared among groups using matched logistic regression (p ≤ 0.05). RESULTS Tibial fractures in 115 horses (97% unilateral; 50% left, 47% right) occurred most commonly during training (68%) and in 2-3 year old horses (73%). Fractures were predominantly comminuted (93%), diaphyseal (44%) and oblique (40%). Of 61 cases examined for callus, 64% had periosteal callus associated with fracture, most commonly in proximal (65%) and distal diaphyseal (27%) locations. Of 28 Racehorses with known exercise history, 57% never raced, 36% had a layup. Affected horses had fewer official-timed works and events (official high speed works and races), number of active days, and accumulated less distance in events and works (p

  • Diagnostic approach to catastrophic musculoskeletal injuries in Racehorses.
    Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, 2017
    Co-Authors: Santiago S Diab, Susan M. Stover, Rick Arthur, Ashley E. Hill, Francisco R. Carvallo, Akinyi C. Nyaoke, Janet Moore, Francisco A. Uzal
    Abstract:

    Catastrophic musculoskeletal injuries are the most common cause of euthanasia or spontaneous death in Racehorses, and the most common cause of jockey falls with potential for serious human injury. Horses are predisposed to the vast majority of these injuries by preexisting lesions that can be prevented by early diagnosis and adequate bone injury management. A thorough examination of the musculoskeletal system in Racehorses often determines the cause of these injuries and generates data to develop injury prevention strategies. We describe the diagnostic approach to musculoskeletal injury, review the methodology for the examination of racehorse limbs, and provide anatomy and pathology tools to perform an organized and thorough postmortem examination of the musculoskeletal system in equine athletes.

  • Modelling the Interaction Between Racehorse Limb and Race Surface
    Procedia Engineering, 2016
    Co-Authors: Jennifer E. Symons, David Hawkins, David P. Fyhrie, Shrinivasa K. Upadhyaya, Susan M. Stover
    Abstract:

    Abstract Musculoskeletal injuries are the leading cause of racehorse fatalities and attrition. Race surface mechanics affect racehorse limb biomechanics, and therefore can affect musculoskeletal injuries. Installation of experimental race surfaces to determine their effect on racehorse limb kinematics is not financially feasible. Furthermore, field data collection is time consuming, labor intensive, and requires the use of live animals. Computational modelling provides an economical option to survey a wide range of surface mechanics and resulting effects on racehorse limb motions. This research aimed to develop and evaluate an integrated racehorse limb and race surface computational model. The interaction of a virtual galloping racehorse impacting virtual race surfaces was modelled in SIMM using combined forward/inverse dynamics. In vivo kinematic data were averaged to determine proximal forelimb, trunk, and hindlimb kinematic model profiles throughout gallop stance, as well as distal forelimb initial conditions. All distal forelimb joints and hoof translations were free to respond to external forces applied by the race surface model during stance. Race surface model coefficients were determined from previously measured race surface mechanics and forward dynamic simulations of a track-testing device. Simulation results were compared to distal forelimb motions of actual galloping Racehorses on mechanically measured race surfaces. Model predicted kinematic profiles (metacarpophalangeal angle and hoof translations) had qualitative shapes and peak magnitudes within ranges of experimental data. Simulated peak metacarpophalangeal angle and hoof translations were within 11 degrees and 4 cm respectively. Future model applications include estimation of the effects of variation in race surface parameters on racehorse limb biomechanics.

  • Caudal lumbar vertebral fractures in California Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred Racehorses.
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2014
    Co-Authors: E. M. Collar, Peta L Hitchens, Mathieu Spriet, Regina Zavodovskaya, T. Wisner, Francisco A. Uzal, Susan M. Stover
    Abstract:

    Summary Reasons for performing study To gain insight into the pathophysiology of equine lumbar vertebral fractures in Racehorses. Objectives To characterise equine lumbar vertebral fractures in California Racehorses. Study design Retrospective case series and prospective case–control study. Methods Racehorse post mortem reports and jockey injury reports were retrospectively reviewed. Vertebral specimens from 6 Racehorses affected with lumbar vertebral fractures and 4 control Racehorses subjected to euthanasia for nonspinal fracture were assessed using visual, radiographic, computed tomography and histological examinations. Results Lumbar vertebral fractures occurred in 38 Quarter Horse and 29 Thoroughbred Racehorses over a 22 year period, primarily involving the 5th and/or 6th lumbar vertebrae (L5–L6; 87% of Quarter Horses and 48% of Thoroughbreds). Lumbar vertebral fractures were the third most common musculoskeletal cause of death in Quarter Horses and frequently involved a jockey injury. Lumbar vertebral specimens contained anatomical variations in the number of vertebrae, dorsal spinous processes and intertransverse articulations. Lumbar vertebral fractures examined in 6 racehorse specimens (5 Quarter Horses and one Thoroughbred) coursed obliquely in a cranioventral to caudodorsal direction across the adjacent L5–L6 vertebral endplates and intervertebral disc, although one case involved only one endplate. All cases had evidence of abnormalities on the ventral aspect of the vertebral bodies consistent with pre-existing, maladaptive pathology. Conclusions Lumbar vertebral fractures occur in Racehorses with pre-existing pathology at the L5–L6 vertebral junction that is likely predisposes horses to catastrophic fracture. Knowledge of these findings should encourage assessment of the lumbar vertebrae, therefore increasing detection of mild vertebral injuries and preventing catastrophic racehorse and associated jockey injuries.

  • humeral stress remodelling locations differ in thoroughbred Racehorses training and racing on dirt compared to synthetic racetrack surfaces
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2013
    Co-Authors: A N Dimock, K D Hoffman, Sarah M Puchalski, Susan M. Stover
    Abstract:

    REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: Veterinarians have observed a putative change in the location of humeral stress remodelling in Thoroughbred Racehorses with change from dirt to synthetic racetrack surfaces. OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the location and severity of humeral stress remodelling differs between Thoroughbred Racehorses exercising on dirt and synthetic racetrack surfaces, the potential significance of different locations of stress remodelling, and the potential usefulness of scintigraphy for prevention of complete humeral fracture. METHODS: Scintigraphic images of humeri from 841 Thoroughbred Racehorses at 3 racetracks during 2 years before and after conversion from dirt to synthetic surfaces were evaluated for location and severity of lesions. The effects of surface on lesion distributions were examined using Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests. Archived fractured humeri were examined to determine the location and severity of stress remodelling associated with complete fracture. Databases were queried to determine whether Racehorses with scintigraphic lesions suffered humeral fracture and whether Racehorses with a complete humeral fracture had had a scintigraphic examination. RESULTS: Horses at synthetic racetracks had a greater proportion of distal humeral lesions, whereas horses at dirt racetracks had a greater proportion of caudoproximal lesions (P<0.001). Proximal lesions were more likely to be severe than distal lesions (P<0.001). Most complete fractures were associated with caudoproximal lesions, which were more often severe than distal lesions (P = 0.002). None of the horses with a scintigraphic lesion had a complete humeral fracture. None of the horses with a complete humeral fracture underwent scintigraphic examination. CONCLUSIONS: Race surface affected humeral scintigraphic lesion location and hence the location of stress remodelling. Lesion severity was associated with lesion location. Complete humeral fracture was associated with caudoproximal stress remodelling and lack of scintigraphic examination. POTENTIAL RELEVANCE: Risk for complete humeral fracture may be lower on synthetic surfaces than on dirt surfaces, and, by inference, for horses examined using scintigraphy.

R K W Smith - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • implantation of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells demonstrates improved outcome in horses with overstrain injury of the superficial digital flexor tendon
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2012
    Co-Authors: E E Godwin, N J Young, Jayesh Dudhia, I C Beamish, R K W Smith
    Abstract:

    Summary Reasons for performing study: Mesenchymal stem (progenitor; stromal) cell (MSC) therapy has gained popularity for the treatment of equine tendon injuries but without reports of long-term follow-up. Objectives: To evaluate the safety and reinjury rate of Racehorses after intralesional MSC injection in a large study of naturally occurring superficial digital flexor tendinopathy and to compare these data with those published for other treatments. Methods: Safety was assessed clinically, ultrasonographically, scintigraphically and histologically in a cohort of treated cases: 141 client-owned treated Racehorses followed-up for a minimum of 2 years after return to full work. Reinjury percentages were compared to 2 published studies of other treatments with similar selection criteria and follow-up. The number of race starts, discipline, age, number of MSCs injected and interval between injury and treatment were analysed. Results: There were no adverse effects of the treatment with no aberrant tissue on histological examination. The reinjury percentage of all Racehorses with follow-up (n = 113) undergoing MSC treatment was 27.4%, with the rate for flat (n = 8) and National Hunt (n = 105) Racehorses being 50 and 25.7%, respectively. This was significantly less than published for National Hunt Racehorses treated in other ways. No relationship between outcome and age, discipline, number of MSCs injected or injury to implantation interval was found. Conclusions: Whilst recognising the limitations of historical controls, this study has shown that MPC implantation is safe and appears to reduce the reinjury rate after superficial digital flexor tendinopathy, especially in National Hunt Racehorses. Potential relevance: This study has provided evidence for the long-term efficacy of MSC treatment for tendinopathy in Racehorses and provides support for translation to human tendon injuries.

  • prevalence of superficial digital flexor tendonitis and suspensory desmitis in japanese thoroughbred flat Racehorses in 1999
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2010
    Co-Authors: Yoshinori Kasashima, Atsutoshi Kuwano, Toshiyuki Takahashi, R K W Smith, Allen E. Goodship, Takanori Ueno, Shiro Hirano
    Abstract:

    Reasons for performing study: Overstrain injuries to the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and suspensory ligament (SL) are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries which contribute to the considerable wastage of racing Thoroughbreds. Many epidemiological studies have demonstrated the prevalence of and risk factors for tendon injury when racing but have not included those injuries sustained during training. However, since tendon injury during training is seen commonly in clinical practice, it is appropriate to determine the overall prevalence of tendon injury sustained during both training and racing. Objective: To determine the prevalence of overstrain injury to the SDFT and SL during training and racing among Thoroughbred flat Racehorses in Japan in 1999. Methods: A retrospective study was performed using a sample population of 10,262 Thoroughbred Racehorses. The medical information database of Thoroughbred Racehorses registered by the Japan Racing Association (JRA) in 1999 was analysed for SDFT and SL overstrain injury diagnosed by a veterinarian employed by JRA during training and racing. Jump Racehorses were excluded from this study. Results: The prevalence of forelimb SDFT tendonitis and SL desmitis was 11.1% (1130 cases) and 3.61% (370 cases) of the population, respectively. In the hindlimb, there were 0.06% (6 cases) and 0.14% (14 cases), respectively. Risks of SDF tendonitis in the forelimb in 3-year-olds or older horses were significantly higher than in 2-year-olds. In contrast, the risk of SL desmitis in the forelimb at age 3 and 4 years was 2.23 and 2.11 times higher, respectively, than in 2-year-olds, but this increased to 5.07 times in those age ≥5 years. Entire males were at greater risk in comparison to females and geldings. Conclusions: The results suggest that the prevalence of SDF tendonitis and SL desmitis in the forelimb was associated with the horse's age and sex. The prevalence of SL desmitis increased further with age compared with SDF tendonitis, possibly reflecting a more rapid accumulation of degeneration in this structure. Potential relevance: The age-related risk demonstrated in this study provides further support that overstrain injuries are associated with accumulated degeneration. These data provide a valuable resource for further research into the aetiology of tendon injury in the racehorse.

Shiro Hirano - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • prevalence of superficial digital flexor tendonitis and suspensory desmitis in japanese thoroughbred flat Racehorses in 1999
    Equine Veterinary Journal, 2010
    Co-Authors: Yoshinori Kasashima, Atsutoshi Kuwano, Toshiyuki Takahashi, R K W Smith, Allen E. Goodship, Takanori Ueno, Shiro Hirano
    Abstract:

    Reasons for performing study: Overstrain injuries to the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and suspensory ligament (SL) are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries which contribute to the considerable wastage of racing Thoroughbreds. Many epidemiological studies have demonstrated the prevalence of and risk factors for tendon injury when racing but have not included those injuries sustained during training. However, since tendon injury during training is seen commonly in clinical practice, it is appropriate to determine the overall prevalence of tendon injury sustained during both training and racing. Objective: To determine the prevalence of overstrain injury to the SDFT and SL during training and racing among Thoroughbred flat Racehorses in Japan in 1999. Methods: A retrospective study was performed using a sample population of 10,262 Thoroughbred Racehorses. The medical information database of Thoroughbred Racehorses registered by the Japan Racing Association (JRA) in 1999 was analysed for SDFT and SL overstrain injury diagnosed by a veterinarian employed by JRA during training and racing. Jump Racehorses were excluded from this study. Results: The prevalence of forelimb SDFT tendonitis and SL desmitis was 11.1% (1130 cases) and 3.61% (370 cases) of the population, respectively. In the hindlimb, there were 0.06% (6 cases) and 0.14% (14 cases), respectively. Risks of SDF tendonitis in the forelimb in 3-year-olds or older horses were significantly higher than in 2-year-olds. In contrast, the risk of SL desmitis in the forelimb at age 3 and 4 years was 2.23 and 2.11 times higher, respectively, than in 2-year-olds, but this increased to 5.07 times in those age ≥5 years. Entire males were at greater risk in comparison to females and geldings. Conclusions: The results suggest that the prevalence of SDF tendonitis and SL desmitis in the forelimb was associated with the horse's age and sex. The prevalence of SL desmitis increased further with age compared with SDF tendonitis, possibly reflecting a more rapid accumulation of degeneration in this structure. Potential relevance: The age-related risk demonstrated in this study provides further support that overstrain injuries are associated with accumulated degeneration. These data provide a valuable resource for further research into the aetiology of tendon injury in the racehorse.