Treatment and outcomes of horses with acute synovitis in the racing season: a 167 case series study
2022
Emine Catalkaya
Among the causes of lameness in horses, those of arthrogenic origin, especially synovitis, which can progress to advanced joint damages, such as osteoarthritis, are of importance in clinical practice. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the early diagnosis, treatment, and treatment outcomes of acute synovitis, which occur frequently in English and Arabian horses during the racing season. A total of 167 joints of 126 horses (39 English and 87 Arabian Thoroughbred) aged 2-4 years diagnosed with acute synovitis were evaluated using clinical, radiographic, and ultrasonographic examinations. The treatment protocol of horses consisted of cold hydrotherapy and light pressure bandage initially, followed by rest for 10 days and controlled walking only, a single dose of phenylbutazone, and intra-articular corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid injection. Although functional improvement was observed in all the horses following this treatment, subsequent relapses occurred in 22 cases. Consequently, it is important to comply with this treatment program and plan the treatment of acute synovitis in the early period. Controlled gaits, rather than absolute immobility, increase the success of treatment, especially in horses at rest. In addition, it is important to ensure that the relevant joint is not overburdened after the rest period in order to avoid relapses.
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