| dc.description.abstract | The metacarpo- and metatarsophalangeal joints of Thoroughbred racehorses are affected by a range of diseases of different etiopathogeneses. Bone maladaptation and special biomechanical factors contribute to the development of most abnormalities, as described in Part 1 of this series. In the current paper, the authors present a literature review of the most common bone and joint disorders affecting the fetlock joint of Thoroughbred racehorses, illustrated with radiographic, computed tomographic (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) images.
Where appropriate, diagnosis and management are also discussed. All athletes, human or equine, are susceptible to orthopaedic injuries during
training and competition. High-speed work during gallop makes racehorses susceptible to musculoskeletal conditions that are rarely seen in horses training and competing in other disciplines. Pathology involving the fetlock region is a leading cause of lameness and wastage in the Thoroughbred industry and, in some cases, it may also necessitate destruction of the horse on humane grounds. Due to the economic and animal welfare implications of fetlock injuries, an increasing emphasis is placed on prevention. This is best achieved by close monitoring of equine athletes, including regular clinical examination, gait assessment and, if appropriate, diagnostic imaging. Indeed, the increasing accessibility of three-dimensional diagnostic imaging methods (CT and MR imaging) enables early detection of fetlock joint abnormalities, thus helping to prevent their progression to serious or catastrophic injuries. | en_US |
