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Transverse stress fracture of the distal diaphysis of the third metacarpus in six Thoroughbred racehorses
Author(s) -
Ramzan P. H. L.
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
equine veterinary journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.82
H-Index - 87
eISSN - 2042-3306
pISSN - 0425-1644
DOI - 10.2746/042516409x444764
Subject(s) - fetlock , metacarpus , stress fractures , medicine , diaphysis , sagittal plane , phalanx , orthodontics , surgery , lameness , anatomy , orthopedic surgery
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.