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El presente proyecto tiene como objetivo analizar y proponer un plan de mejora que permita el mejor desarrollo de las labores de los practicantes y contribuya al área en la que se encuentra de modo que permita cumplir con las fechas limites de entrega de la información, presentando dos alternativas que les ayudará a agilizar algunos procesos y permitirá facilitar a futuros practicantes algunas de estas labores. The objective of this project is to analyze and propose an improvement plan that allows the best development of the work of the practitioners and contributes to the area in which it is located in a way that allows compliance with the deadlines for delivery of information, presenting two alternatives that will help streamline some processes and will facilitate some of these tasks to future practitioners. Profesional en Negocios Internacionales Pregrado

Background and Aim: A healthy joint is an important structure for the proper movement of the camel limb. Intra-articular (IA) injection is frequently used in veterinary practice for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes of joint injuries. Thus, the current study aimed to describe the injection of the hindlimb joints in dromedary camels based on the anatomical and arthrographic-guided landmarks. Materials and Methods: Eighteen orthopedically sound adult camels (mean±standard deviation age: 78±12 months) of both sexes were included in this study. Three camels were euthanized to identify anatomical features in the hindlimb joints and related structures. IA injections were performed in the hindlimbs of 5 camel cadavers to evaluate the optimal IA injection site, which was confirmed by arthrography. The optimized IA injection technique was applied in 10 live camels and confirmed by arthrocentesis and arthrography. For each joint, injection criteria (number of attempts, difficulty of injection, and successful injection) were assessed, scored, and statistically compared to the other joints. Results: The summation of IA injection criteria scores was significantly higher (p

Background Correct diagnosis and characterisation of deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) lesions in equine athletes allows targeted treatment and improved prognostication. Objectives To assess the prevalence and character of pathological change within the DDFT in the pastern with concurrent tendon injury distally. It is hypothesised that tendon lesions in the pastern will be associated with tendinopathy within the hoof capsule. Study design Retrospective descriptive case series. Methods Cases with DDFT lesions in the pastern and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasonography of the foot were evaluated retrospectively. Lesion location and type were recorded. Odds ratios were calculated to determine the associations between more distal tendinopathy and the presence of different DDFT lesion types in the pastern. Results Thirty-four MRI scans of 33 horses and 64 ultrasonographic exams of 58 horses were analysed. Lesion location and type were recorded. Distal DDFT lesions were found in 75% (95% CI: 66.0-84.0) of total cases of pastern DDF tendinopathy and in 97% (95% CI: 91.6-100.0) of cases with core lesions of the DDFT in the pastern. A core lesion in the pastern was significantly more likely (OR = 20.7, 95% CI: 2.2-191.0; P = .008) to be associated with injury in the foot than other types of pastern lesion. Main limitations MRIs of the foot were not obtained on all included limbs which did not allow for fully inclusive evaluation of DDFT lesions distal to the navicular bone. Conclusions DDFT pathological change in the pastern, particularly core lesions, is associated with additional tendinopathy within the hoof capsule. When a DDFT lesion is found in the pastern, further imaging of the tendon within the foot is indicated to direct appropriate treatment and improve prognostication.

This study was designed to evaluate and compare the optimal sites for intra-articular (IA) injection into the digits of buffalo by discrimination of the injection criteria. Forty-eight cadaveric hind digits of adult buffalos and nine live ones were assigned for three trial investigations. In the first division, eighteen sound cadaveric limbs were used to describe the anatomical features of the hind digit. In the second division, thirty cadaveric limbs (ten for each approach) were injected with an equal volume of iopamidol through relevant joint pouches to compare the dorsal, lateral and plantar IA approaches for each joint. The former technique was applied to nine live, healthy adult buffaloes to evaluate the accuracy of IA injection of the hind digit in vivo. Injection criteria were assessed, scored and statistically compared among the three approaches. The summation of injection criteria scores showed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the dorsal and lateral approaches for IA injection of the fetlock, pastern and coffin joints in the buffalo digit compared to the plantar one. However, median and range of injection criteria scores between the dorsal and lateral approaches were slightly less significant. In conclusion, the present study established a reference for IA injection of the buffalo digit that could aid the diagnosis and treatment of digit-related lameness.

In this study, a morphometric investigation was carried out on the Akbash Turkish shepherd dog breed using 30 exterior parameters. The study consisted of 96 dogs (54 males and 42 females) ranging in age from 2 to 9 years. All dogs were bred in the West Anatolia region of Turkey, around the city of Eskisehir. The following exterior parameters were measured and their means were obtained: height at withers (65.22±3.99 cm), height at mid-back (62.24±4.24 cm), height at rump (64.97±4.16 cm), height at base of tail (58.2±5.01 cm), height to elbow (36.07±4.06 cm), height to knee (35.83±4.96 cm), height to hock (17.08±3.21 cm), height to tip of sternum (45.12±4.30 cm), body length (70.58±5.58 cm), chest depth (29.58±3.23 cm), chest width (21.02±3.18 cm), breast width (16.86±3.41 cm), chest circumference (77.86±7.05 cm), pastern circumference (13.27±1.67 cm), rump length (19.21±3.27 cm), pelvic width (8.65±2.18 cm), rump protuberance width (7.58±3.02 cm), head length (27.20±2.85 cm), skull length (16.58±1.92 cm), muzzle length (10.30±2.35 cm), skull width (14.06±1.96 cm), muzzle width (7.60±1.26 cm). According to the obtained morphological characteristics the dog has a rectangular body format, and the rump is somewhat higher than the height at the withers. According to its craniological characteristics it belongs to the group of mesaticephalic dogs. The width of the skull is smaller than its length. Angles of the hind legs are more open than angles of the front legs.

Working equids rely on sound, balanced hooves, but data describing the typical morphology of the legs and feet of working donkeys are currently lacking. To address this gap in knowledge, the front and hind feet of twenty healthy working donkeys were measured and compared. Hoof width, weight-bearing lengths, heel width, dorsal hoof wall length and lateral and medial heel length of the hoof wall were determined, as well as toe angle, heel angle, hoof pastern axis, coronary band angle and a measure of 'ground surface size'. Viewed from the ground surface of the foot, front feet were more rounded and significantly larger than hind feet. Measures of medial-lateral balance and toe-heel angle ratio were within the recommended healthy guidelines for horses. Hoof pastern axis was broken forward for the studied animals, which supports previous research suggesting that a broken forward hoof pastern axis is normal for donkeys, although further study would be required to confirm whether this conformation is natural. Significant correlations were found between estimated body mass and hoof width in both the front and hind feet. These measurements provide valuable insight into the relationship between hoof and body characteristics, which may aid the development of guidelines for the trimming and management of working donkey hooves. Further study is, however, advised to confirm natural hoof conformation.

Osteoartrite interfalangeana proximal é causa comum de claudicação em equinos e técnicas de artrodese nesta articulação fornecem um favorável prognóstico atlético para os animais. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar duas técnicas minimamente invasivas para artrodese da articulação interfalangeana proximal (AIP), analisando as propriedades biomecânicas em um teste dinâmico não destrutivo, seguido de um teste compressivo até a falha. Foram comparadas as técnicas utilizando três parafusos corticais transarticulares de 5,5 mm inseridos em compressão (3PCs) e a com dois parafusos de compressão multiusos canulados transarticulares de 7,0 mm (2PCMs). O delineamento experimental incluiu 6 pares de membros torácicos de equinos ex vivo; sendo que cada par recebeu aleatoriamente em cada membro um dos tratamentos propostos. O ensaio dinâmico foi realizado alternando ensaios de compressão não destrutivos a uma taxa de deslocamento de 5 mm/min até -5.000 N e ensaios cíclicos de compressão senoidal a 6 Hz usando uma amplitude de 3.600 N por 8.550 ciclos. A rigidez do constructo e a rotação dos marcadores da AIP sobre o plano sagital (RMPS) máxima foram determinadas durante o teste dinâmico. Após o teste dinâmico atingir 136.800 ciclos, o teste de compressão monotônico até a falha foi realizado em cada construto com a mensuração da carga, deslocamento e RMPS na falha. Os dados foram avaliados pelo teste de Shapiro-Wilk. As variáveis com distribuição normal foram analisadas por ANOVA e as que não atenderam à distribuição normal foram analisadas com Kruskal-Wallis. As propriedades biomecânicas avaliadas não mostraram diferença estatística entre os grupos de tratamento 3PCs e 2PCMs em nenhuma das rampas do ensaio dinâmico não destrutivo e também no ensaio de compressão monotônico até a falha. Em conclusão, o tratamento 2PCMs possui propriedades biomecânicas equivalentes ao tratamento 3PCs para artrodese da AIP. Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint osteoarthritis is a common cause of lameness in horses, and arthrodesis techniques in this joint provide a good athletic prognosis for affected animals. The objective of this study was to compare two minimally invasive techniques for PIP arthrodesis, analyzing the biomechanical properties in a non-destructive dynamic test, followed by a compressive until failure. The two techniques evaluated were: using 3 transarticular 5.5 mm cortical screws inserted in lag fashion (AO-3TLS), and 2 transarticular 7.0 mm headless cannulated multi-use compression screws (MUC-2TS). The experimental study included 6 pairs of ex vivo adult equine forelimbs; one limb from each equine was randomly assigned to one of the treatments and the contralateral limb was submitted to the remaining treatment. The dynamic test was performed alternating non-destructive compression tests at a displacement rate of 5 mm/min up to 5,000 N and sinusoidal compressive cyclic tests at 6Hz using a 3,600 N amplitude for 8,550 cycles. Construct stiffness and maximal sagittal plane rotation about the PIP joint markers (SPRPJM) were determined during dynamic test. After the dynamic test reached 136,800 cycles, the monotonic compressive test until failure was performed on each construct: load, displacement and SPRPJM at failure were analyzed. The data were evaluated using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Variables with normal distribution were analyzed using ANOVA and that did not meet the normal distribution were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis. The evaluated biomechanical properties showed no statistical difference between the AO-3TLS and MUC-2TS treatment groups in any of the ramps of the dynamic non-destructive test and in the compression loading until failure test. In conclusion, the MUC-2TS treatment produced biomechanical properties equivalent to the AO-3TLS treatment for PIP joint arthrodesis.

The present study aimed to describe the normal cross sectional anatomy and magnetic resonance imaging of pastern and coffin joints in dromedary camel. This study was conducted on twelve distal limbs (fore and hind) of fresh cadavers from three adult camels of both sexes. The specimens appeared normal without orthopedic disorders. Twelve distal limbs were scanned using a 1 Tesla MRI scanner and then injected with colored latex to be sectioned into sagittal, dorsal and transverse slices. Cross anatomical sections were matched with their corresponding MR images for identification and evaluation of the clinically relevant anatomical structures that appeared with different signal intensities on MRI scans. The present study showed that all major soft tissues in pastern and coffin joints of camel were clearly depicted on MR images, however, the palmar/plantar ligaments of pastern joint and ligaments of navicular cartilage could not be identified on MR images. The annotated cross anatomical sections with the corresponding MR images could be used as a normal reference for interpretation of some clinical diseases in pastern and coffin joints of camel.

Robust mechanisms for slip resistance are an open challenge in legged locomotion. Animals such as goats show impressive ability to resist slippage on cliffs. It is not fully known what attributes in their body determine this ability. Studying the slip resistance dynamics of the goat may offer insight toward the biologically inspired design of robotic hooves. This article tests how the embodiment of the hoof contributes to solving the problem of slip resistance. We ran numerical simulations and experiments using a passive robotic goat hoof for different compliance levels of its three joints. We established that compliant yaw and pitch and stiff roll can increase the energy required to slide the hoof by $\approx \text{20}\%$ compared to the baseline (stiff hoof). Compliant roll and pitch allow the robotic hoof to adapt to the irregularities of the terrain. This produces an antilock braking system-like behavior of the robotic hoof for slip resistance. Therefore, the pastern and coffin joints have a substantial effect on the slip resistance of the robotic hoof, while the fetlock joint has the lowest contribution. These shed insights into how robotic hooves can be used to autonomously improve slip resistance.

Selection for feet and leg traits can increase longevity as well as several performance traits in sows. Moreover, good feet and leg quality contributes improving animal welfare not only for sows, but also for piglets. Sows with feet and leg problems have a higher risk of crushing their piglets when lying down. Therefore, a feet and leg scoring scheme was derived and applied by trained assessors. Furthermore, piglet mortality rate by crushing was recorded. Genetic parameters as well as breeding values were estimated and the effect of the traits on piglet mortality rate by crushing was investigated. Data of 993 Large White and 299 Landrace sows of 23 nucleus farms were analyzed. Heritabilities ranged from 0.03 to 0.16 for piglet mortality rate by crushing and pastern fore legs. Some genetic correlations between feet and leg traits were significantly highly correlated (0.69 to 0.79). Sows with favorable scores for almost all feet and leg scores had higher estimated breeding values for piglet mortality rate. Higher values indicate less crushed piglets and are thus favorable. An introduction of a feet and leg scoring scheme into routine genetic evaluation may thus contribute to animal welfare improvement for sows and piglets.

The breeding of a healthy horse is the basic requirement for optimal performance. This is also specifically stated in the breeding goal of the Swiss warmblood horse and should be achieved through a strict selection of the stallions. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the current state of the population to optimize breeding. Data on the health status of Swiss warmblood horses in the age between 6 and 16 years (midlife) were collected by a telephone survey and analyzed descriptively. Following the heritability of the most common health problems were estimated. Data on 1,861 horses were collected between 2016 and 2018. Lameness (34%), colic (22%), sarcoids (19%), and pastern dermatitis (16%) were among the most common health problems, followed by back problems (13%), cough (10%), urticaria (10%), free fecal water syndrome (9%), nasal discharge (8%) and sweet itch (4%). Lameness was observed in 49% of the cases in the forelimbs, in 25% in the hindlimbs and in 26% in both. 27% of horses with colic have been hospitalized once and 8% have undergone colic surgery. Sarcoids became fewer or smaller in 89% of the treated and in 58% of the untreated horses. A significant relationship between treatment and the status of the sarcoids was demonstrated (p .Die Zucht eines gesunden Pferdes stellt eine Grundvoraussetzung für optimale Leistung dar. Dies wird auch im Zuchtziel des Schweizer Warmblutpferdes spezifisch festgehalten und soll durch eine strenge Selektion der Hengste erreicht werden. Um die Zucht zu optimieren, muss der aktuelle Zustand der Population bekannt sein, was das Ziel der vorliegenden, retrospektiven Studie war. Mittels einer telefonischen Umfrage wurden Daten zum Gesundheitszustand der Schweizer Warmblutpferde im Alter von 6–16 Jahren (mittleres Alter) während ihres bisherigen Lebens gesammelt und deskriptiv aufbereitet. Anschliessend wurden die Heritabilitäten der häufigsten Gesundheitsprobleme geschätzt. Insgesamt konnten zwischen 2016 und 2018 Daten zu 1861 Pferden erhoben werden. Lahmheit (34%), Kolik (22%), Sarkoide (19%) und Mauke (16%) gehörten zu den am häufigsten vorkommenden Gesundheitsproblemen, gefolgt von Rückenproblemen (13%), Husten (10%), Nesselfieber (10%), Kotwasser (9%), Nasenausfluss (8%) und Sommerekzem (4%). Bei 49% der lahmen Pferde war eine Vordergliedmasse betroffen, bei 25% eine Hintergliedmasse, bei 26% beides. 27% der Pferde mit Kolik wurden bereits einmal hospitalisiert und 8% einer Kolikoperation unterzogen. Sarkoide wurden weniger oder kleiner bei 89% der therapierten, aber auch bei 58% der nicht therapierten Pferde. Es konnte ein signifikanter Zusammenhang zwischen Therapie und dem Status der Sarkoide nachgewiesen werden (p .L’élevage d’un cheval en bonne santé représente une condition de base pour une performance optimale. Ceci est également spécifiquement mentionné dans l’objectif d’élevage du cheval de sang suisse et doit être atteint par une sélection stricte des étalons. Afin d’optimiser l’élevage, il faut connaître l’état actuel de la population, ce qui était le but de cette étude rétrospective. Au moyen d’une enquête téléphonique, des données sur l’état de santé des chevaux de sang suisses âgés de 6 à 16 ans (âge moyen) ont été collectées et traitées de manière descriptive. Les héritabilités des problèmes de santé les plus courants ont ensuite été estimées. Au total, les données de1861 chevaux ont été collectés entre 2016 et 2018. Les boiteries (34%), les coliques (22%), les sarcoïdes (19%) et les crevasses (16%) figuraient parmi les problèmes de santé les plus courants, suivis des problèmes de dos (13%), de la toux (10%), des urticaires (10%), d’écoulements anaux (« Kotwasser ») (9%), d’écoulements nasaux (8%) et de dermite estivale (4%). Chez 49% des chevaux boiteux, il s’agissait d’une boiterie antérieure, chez 25% d’une boiterie postérieure et chez 26% d’une boiterie impliquant antérieurs et postérieurs. 27% des chevaux présentant des coliques avaient été hospitalisés et 8% avaient subi une chirurgie de coliques. Les sarcoïdes sont devenus moins nombreux ou plus petits chez 89% des chevaux traités mais également chez 58% des chevaux non traités. Une relation significative entre le traitement et l’état des sarcoïdes a pu être démontrée (p .Allevare un cavallo sano è un requisito fondamentale per ottenere prestazioni ottimali. Questo è anche specificamente indicato nell’obiettivo per l’allevamento dei cavalli a sangue caldo svizzeri ed esso dovrebbe essere raggiunto attraverso una rigorosa selezione degli stalloni. Per poter ottimizzare l’allevamento, è necessario conoscere lo stato attuale della popolazione; questo era l’obiettivo di questo studio retrospettivo. Via un’indagine telefonica, sono stati raccolti i dati sullo stato di salute dei cavalli a sangue caldo svizzeri di età compresa tra i 6 e i 16 anni (età media) fino ad oggi, e tali dati sono stati elaborati in modo descrittivo. Sono state quindi stimate le ereditabilità dei problemi di salute più comuni. I dati su un totale di 1861 cavalli sono stati raccolti tra il 2016 e il 2018 e tra i problemi di salute più comuni sono stati rilevati zoppia (34%), coliche (22%), sarcoidi (19%) e febbre da fango (16%), seguiti da problemi alla schiena (13%), tosse (10%), orticaria (10%), acqua fecale (9%), secrezione nasale (8%) e prurito dolce (4%). Nei cavalli affetti da zoppia, era stato colpito nel 49% un arto anteriore, nel 25% un arto posteriore e nel 26% entrambi. Il 27% dei cavalli affetti da coliche era già stato ricoverato e l’8% aveva già subito un intervento per le coliche. Nell’89% dei cavalli trattati, i sarcoidi erano meno o più piccoli ma pure nel 58% dei cavalli non trattati. Una relazione significativa è stata dimostrata tra la terapia e lo stato dei sarcoidi (p .

This study discussed several cases of proximal interphalangeal arthrodesis in horses at a veterinary hospital in Brazil. The medical records of seven horses that underwent proximal interphalangeal arthrodesis between 2011 and 2019 were analyzed for indication, technique, and complications. Short- and long-term outcomes were obtained from both the medical records and telephone interviews with the owners. A dynamic compression plate (DCP) was used in one of the seven horses that underwent surgical arthrodesis, and locking compression plates (LCP) were used in the others. Hospital discharge was recorded in 71.4% (5/7) of the horses, with an average hospital stay of 79 ± 45 days. Casting was maintained for 59 ± 26 days. Contact with owners was possible in four cases, two of which regained their prior level of function. The proximal interphalangeal arthrodesis may improve a horse’s well-being, especially when it is considered an early intervention, minimizing the chances of immediate postoperative complications. Additional cases of surgical arthrodesis should be evaluated in long term to better characterize the outcomes of this procedure in Brazil. RESUMO: Este estudo teve como objetivo apresentar e discutir casos de artrodese interfalangeana proximal em equinos atendidos em um Hospital Veterinário no Brasil. Os prontuários de sete equinos submetidos à artrodese interfalangeana proximal foram analisados quanto à indicação, técnica e complicações, entre 2011 e 2019. As informações sobre os desfechos de curto e longo prazo foram obtidas pela avaliação dos prontuário e entrevista telefônica com os proprietários. Em um dos sete cavalos submetidos à artrodese cirúrgica foi utilizado implantes DCP, e nos demais, LCP. A alta hospitalar foi registrada em 71,4% (5/7), com média de permanência hospitalar de 79±45 dias. A imobilização externa durou 59±26 dias. O contato com os proprietários foi possível em quatro casos, dos quais, em dois, os animais voltaram às suas funções. A artrodese interfalangeana proximal pode melhorar a qualidade de vida dos equinos, principalmente quando se considera a intervenção precoce, minimizando as chances de complicações pós-operatórias imediatas. Casos adicionais devem ser avaliados ao longo prazo para melhor caracterizar os resultados desse procedimento no Brasil.

A artrodese cirúrgica é efetiva para o tratamento de condições da articulação interfalangeana proximal (AIP) em equinos. Diversas técnicas são descritas, e o uso de uma placa de compressão bloqueada de três orifícios e 4,5 mm associada com dois parafusos corticais transarticulares de 5,5 mm é atualmente o padrão ouro. Esta revisão tem por objetivo descrever a anatomia da região da quartela, bem como as causas, indicações e possibilidades para a artrodese da AIP nos equinos. É apresentada também a descrição da técnica cirúrgica atualmente utilizada para realização da fixação da articulação. Surgical arthrodesis is effective for treating proximal interphalangeal joint (PIJ) injuries in horses. Despite several techniques described so far, the use of a 3-hole, 4.5mm-locking compression plate, associated with two 5.5-mm transarticular cortex screws, is currently considered the “gold standard.” This review describes the anatomy of the pastern, as well as causes, indications, and possibilities for arthrodesis in the equine PIJ. A description of the current surgical technique for joint fixation is also presented.

Background Equine pastern dermatitis (EPD) is a common dermatological problem in horses, yet its aetiology and pathogenesis are poorly understood. Objectives This study aimed to investigate the effects of lesion severity and topical antimicrobial treatment on bacterial flora of EPD‐affected skin. Animals Sixteen horses with EPD were investigated. Methods and materials An observational study was conducted by assigning a clinical severity score ranging from 0 (macroscopically nonlesional) to 21 (severe), and sampling the most and least severely affected limbs of 16 horses (32 limbs) for bacteriological culture and 16S rRNA sequencing. Topical antimicrobial treatment in the month before sampling was recorded. The limbs were allocated to a nonlesional or mildly affected group (Group A, score 0–3) and a moderate to severely affected group (Group B, score 4–21). Results The most commonly cultured bacterial species was Staphylococcus aureus (one of 15 Group A versus nine of 17 Group B). Within Group B, S. aureus was found in three of six limbs treated with topical antimicrobials and in six of 11 untreated limbs. β‐haemolytic streptococci (three of 32) and Trueperella pyogenes (two of 32) also were cultured exclusively in the untreated limbs of Group B. Staphylococci and streptococci were found more often by 16S rRNA sequencing than in culture. Limbs with higher lesion severity and topical antimicrobial treatment appeared to have a lower alpha diversity and different beta diversity compared to milder and untreated lesions. Conclusions and clinical importance Observed differences in microbiota of equine skin are likely to be linked to the presence and severity of EPD and topical antimicrobial treatment. Further research is needed to establish causal bacteria., Background –Equine pastern dermatitis (EPD) is a common dermatological problem in horses, yet its aetiology and pathogenesis are poorly understood. Objectives –This study aimed to investigate the effects of lesion severity and topical antimicrobial treatment on bacterial flora of EPD‐affected skin. Conclusions and clinical importance – Observed differences in microbiota of equine skin are likely to be linked to the presence and severity of EPD and topical antimicrobial treatment. Further research is needed to establish causal bacteria.

Equine pastern dermatitis (EPD), a multifactorial syndrome, manifests as skin lesions of variable severity in the pastern area. Despite the widespread use of antibacterial therapy for treating this condition, little is known about the contributing bacteria.To investigate the bacterial skin microbiota in EPD-affected and unaffected (control) pasterns.Case-control study with 80 client-owned horses; each with at least one EPD-affected and one control pastern.Horses were grouped by the form of EPD (mild, exudative or proliferative), the assigned severity grade and type of pretreatment (disinfectant, topical antibacterial or no antibacterial pretreatment). Skin swabs were obtained, and the microbiota composition was compared between the groups.Bacterial alpha diversity was reduced in affected pasterns (P 0.001) and this reduction was significantly associated with the EPD forms (P 0.001), and not with the type of pretreatment (P 0.14). Analyses of beta-diversity confirmed a disordering of the skin microbiota (P = 0.004) in affected versus control pasterns, that was particularly profound in more severe lesions. The type of pretreatment was not significantly associated with this disordering. Four differentially abundant families were detected, of which Staphylococcaceae was the most distinct. The relative abundance of staphylococci was significantly increased in affected pasterns (P = 0.011), particularly in those that had received antibacterial treatment previously.Changes in the microbiota are associated with the EPD form or severity of lesions. The role of bacteria in the pathogenesis of EPD as well as the propriety and consequences of antibacterial treatment should therefore be further investigated.La dermatite des paturons équine (EPD) est un syndrome multifactoriel qui se manifeste par des lésions cutanées de sévérité variable du paturon. Malgré l’utilisation répandue d’antibiotiques pour le traitement, on en sait peu sur le rôle des bactéries. HYPOTHÈSES/OBJECTIFS: Etudier le microbiote bactérien cutané des paturons atteints de EPD et de contrôles sains.Une étude contrôlées avec 80 chevaux de propriétaires ; chacun avec au moins un paturon atteint d’EPD et un paturon sain. MATÉRIEL ET MÉTHODE: Les chevaux ont été groupés selon la forme d’EPD (modérée, exsudative ou proliférative) le grade de sévérité et le type de prétraitement (désinfectant, antibiotique topique ou pas d’antibactérien). Des écouvillons cutanés ont été obtenus et la composition du microbiote a été comparée entre les groupes. RÉSULTATS: La diversité bactérienne alpha était réduite sur les paturons atteints (P 0.001) et cette réduction était significativement associée à la forme de l’EPD (P 0.001) et pas avec le type de prétraitement (P 0.14). Les analyses de diversité béta ont confirmé un désordre du microbiote cutané (P = 0.004) des paturons atteints versus contrôles, ce qui était particulièrement marqué pour les lésions les plus sévères. Le type de prétraitement n’était pas significativement associé avec ces altérations. Quatre familles différentes sont été détectées parmi lesquelles, Staphylococcaceae était la plus importante. La relative abondance de staphylococci était significativement augmentée sur les paturons atteints (P = 0.011), en particulier chez ceux qui ont reçu un prétraitement antibactérien.Les changements du microbiote sont associés avec la forme d’EPD ou la sévérité des lésions. Le rôle des bactéries dans la pathogénie de l’EPD aussi bien que les propriétés et les conséquences d’un traitement antibactérien, devraient ainsi être plus étudiés.INTRODUCCIÓN: la dermatitis de la cuartilla equina (EPD), un síndrome multifactorial, se manifiesta como lesiones cutáneas de gravedad variable en el área de la cuartilla. A pesar del uso generalizado de la terapia antibacteriana para tratar esta afección, se sabe poco acerca de las bacterias contribuyentes. HIPÓTESIS/OBJETIVOS: Investigar la microbiota bacteriana de la piel en metacarpos afectados y no afectados (control) por EPD. ANIMALES: estudio de casos y controles con 80 caballos de propietarios particulares; cada uno con al menos una cuartilla afectada por EPD y una cuartilla de control. MÉTODOS Y MATERIALES: los caballos se agruparon según la forma de EPD (leve, exudativa o proliferativa), el grado de gravedad asignado y el tipo de pretratamiento (desinfectante, antibacteriano tópico o sin pretratamiento antibacteriano). Se obtuvieron hisopos de piel y se comparó la composición de la microbiota entre los grupos. RESULTADOS: la diversidad alfa bacteriana se redujo en los metacarpos afectados (P0,001) y esta reducción se asoció significativamente con las formas de EPD (P0,001) y no con el tipo de pretratamiento (P0,14). Los análisis de la diversidad beta confirmaron un trastorno de la microbiota de la piel (P = 0,004) en los metacarpos afectados frente al control, que fue particularmente intenso en las lesiones más graves. El tipo de pretratamiento no se asoció significativamente con este trastorno. Se detectaron cuatro familias diferencialmente abundantes, de las cuales Staphylococcaceae fue la más distintiva. La abundancia relativa de estafilococos aumentó significativamente en los metacarpos afectados (P = 0.011), particularmente en aquellos que habían recibido tratamiento antibacteriano previamente. CONCLUSIONES Y RELEVANCIA CLÍNICA: los cambios en la microbiota están asociados con la forma de EPD o la gravedad de las lesiones. Por lo tanto, el papel de las bacterias en la patogenia de la EPD, así como la propiedad y las consecuencias del tratamiento antibacteriano, deben investigarse más a fondo.Die equine Pastern Dermatitis (Mauke), ein multifaktorielles Syndrom, manifestiert sich in Form von Hautveränderungen von unterschiedlichem Ausmaß in der Fesselbeuge. Trotz der weitverbreiteten Verwendung antibakterieller Therapie zur Behandlung dieses Zustandes, ist wenig bekannt über die beteiligten Bakterien.Eine Untersuchung der bakteriellen Mikrobiota der Haut bei EPD-betroffenen und nicht-betroffenen (Kontroll) Fesselbeugen.Eine Fallkontrollstudie mit 80 Pferden in Privatbesitz; ein jedes mit mindestens einer EPD-betroffenen und einer Kontroll-Fesselbeuge.Die Pferde wurden nach der Form der EPD in Gruppen eingeteilt (mild, exsudativ oder proliferativ), dem zugeteilten Schweregrad und der Art der Vorbehandlung (Desinfektionsmittel, oberflächliche antibakterielle oder nicht-antibakterielle Vorbehandlung). Es wurden Hauttupfer genommen und die Zusammensetzung der Mikrobiota zwischen den Gruppen verglichen.Die bakterielle Alpha Diversität war in den betroffenen Fesselbeugen reduziert (P0,001) und diese Reduzierung stand signifikant im Zusammenhang mit den EPD Formen (P0,001) und nicht mit der Art der Vorbehandlung (P0,14). Die Analyse der Beta-Diversität bestätigte ein Durcheinander der Mikrobiota der Haut (P = 0,004) in betroffenen versus den Kontroll Fesselbeugen, was in manchen schweren Fällen besonders auffällig war. Die Art der Vorbehandlung stand nicht signifikant im Zusammenhang mit diesem Durcheinander. Es wurden vier verschieden häufig auftretende Familien gefunden, von denen Staphylokokken die häufigsten waren. Die relative Häufigkeit der Staphylokokken war in den betroffenen Fesselbeugen signifikant erhöht (P = 0,011), vor allem bei denen, die vorher bereits eine antibakterielle Behandlung erhalten hatten.Veränderungen der Mikrobiota standen im Zusammenhang mit der EPD Form oder der Schwere der Veränderungen. Die Rolle der Bakterien bei der Pathogenese der EPD sowie die Korrektheit und die Konsequenzen der antibakteriellen Behandlung sollten daher in Zukunft noch untersucht werden.背景: 多因子症候群の一つである馬の繋皸 (EPD) は、繋部に様々な重症度の皮膚病変を現す。馬の繋皸治療には抗菌療法が広く用いられているが、原因となる細菌についてはほとんど知られていない。 仮説・目的: 本研究の目的は、EPDに罹患および罹患していない (コントロール) 繋部における細菌性皮膚微生物叢を調査することであった。 被験動物: クライアント所有馬80頭を対象としたケースコントロール研究で、それぞれ少なくとも1頭のEPD罹患馬および1頭の対照馬を対象とした。 材料と方法: 馬はEPDの形態 (軽度、滲出性、増殖性) 、割り当てられた重症度、前治療の種類 (消毒剤、局所抗菌剤、抗菌剤前処理なし) によってグループ分けされた。また、皮膚スワブを採取し、グループ間の微生物叢組成を比較した。 結果: 細菌のα多様性は罹患繋部で減少し (P0.001) 、この減少はEPD形態と有意に関連し (P0.001) 、前治療の種類とは関連しなかった (P0.14) 。β多様性の解析では、患肢および対照肢で皮膚微生物叢の乱れ (P = 0.004) が確認され、特に重度の病変で顕著であった。前治療の種類は、この乱れとは有意に関連していなかった。4つの異なるファミリーが検出され、中でもStaphylococcaceaeが最も特徴的であった。Staphylococciの相対的な存在量は、罹患繋部で有意に増加し (P = 0.011) 、特に以前に抗菌治療を受けたものでは顕著であった。 結論と臨床的関連性: 微生物相の変化はEPDの形態または病変の重症度と関連している。したがって、EPDの病因における細菌の役割や、抗菌剤治療の妥当性および結果について、さらに調査する必要がある。.背景: 马骹皮炎(EPD)是一种多因素综合征, 表现为不同严重程度的骹部皮肤病变。尽管抗菌治疗被广泛用于治疗这种疾病, 但对相关细菌知之甚少。 假设/目的: 研究EPD的发病和未发病 (对照) 骹的细菌皮肤微生物群。 动物: 病例对照研究, 80匹私家马; 每匹马至少有1处骹部发生和未发生EPD。 方法和材料: 马按EPD形式 (轻度、渗出性或增生性) 、指定的严重程度等级和前期治疗类型 (消毒剂、外部抗菌或无抗菌治疗) 分组。留取皮肤拭子, 比较各组菌群组成。 结果: 发病骹的细菌α多样性降低(P0.001), 这种降低与EPD形式显著相关(P0.001), 而与治疗类型无关(P0.14)。β多样性分析证实, 与对照骹相比, 发病骹的皮肤微生物群紊乱(P = 0.004), 在更严重的病变中尤其明显。治疗类型与这种紊乱无显著相关性。检测到丰度不同的4个科, 其中葡萄球菌科最明显。发病骹中葡萄球菌的相对丰度显著增加(P = 0.011), 特别是既往接受过抗菌治疗的骹。 结论和临床相关性: 微生物群的变化与EPD形式或病变严重程度相关。因此应进一步研究细菌在EPD发病机制中的作用,以及抗菌治疗的适当性和后果。.A dermatite de quartela equina (DQE), uma síndrome multifatorial, manifesta-se como lesões cutâneas de gravidade variável na região da quartela. Apesar do amplo uso de antibioticoterapia para o tratamento desta condição, pouco se sabe sobre as bactérias que contribuem. HIPÓTESE/OBJETIVOS: Investigar a microbiota bacteriana quartelas DQE-afetadas e quartelas controle.Estudo caso-controle com 80 cavalos de tutores; cada um com ao menos uma quartela DQE-afetada e uma quartela controle. MÉTODOS E MATÉRIAS: Os cavalos foram agrupados de acordo com a sua forma de DQE (leve, exsudativa ou proliferativa), o grau de severidade atribuído e o tipo de pré-tratamento (desinfectante, antibacteriano tópico ou sem pré-tratamento antibacteriano). Obteve-se swabs cutâneos, e a composição da microbiota foi comparada entre os grupos.A alphadiversidade bacteriana estava reduzida nas quartelas afetadas (P 0,001) e esta redução foi significativamente associada com as formas de DQE (P 0,001), não ao tipo de pré-tratamento (P 0,14). As análises de betadiversidade confirmaram o distúrbio da microbiota cutânea (P = 0,004) nas quartelas afetadas versus controle, que foi particularmente mais intensa nas lesões mais severas. O tipo de pré-tratamento não estava associado com esse distúrbio. Quatro famílias diferentemente abundantes foram encontradas, das quais a Staphylococcaceae foi a mais distinta. A abundância relativa de estafilococos estava significativamente aumentada nas quartelas afetadas (P = 0,011), particularmente naquelas que receberam antibacterianos previamente. CONCLUSÕES E IMPORTÂNCIA CLÍNICA: As alterações na microbiota estão associadas à forma da DQE e à severidade das lesões. A participação das bactérias na patogênese da DQE e as propriedades e consequências do tratamento antibacteriano devem ser investigadas futuramente.

The objective of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties in a single cycle axial loading test and the types of failures in two constructs (a 3-hole 4.5-mm dynamic compression plate (DCP) and 7-hole 5.5-mm Y locking compression plate (Y-LCP)) in equine proximal interphalangeal joint (PIJ) arthrodesis. One limb in each pair was randomly assigned to PIJ arthrodesis using a 3-hole 4.5-mm DCP combined with two transarticular 5.5-mm cortical screws, whereas the contralateral limb was submitted to PIJ arthrodesis using a 7-hole Y-shaped 5.0-mm LCP in conjunction with one transarticular 4.5-mm cortical screw inserted through the central plate hole. Cortical screws were inserted in lag fashion. Constructs were submitted to a single axial load cycle to failure. Construct stiffness, load, and deformation were analyzed. Dynamic compression plate and Y-LCP arthrodesis constructs did not differ significantly and were equally resistant to axial loading under the conditions studied (DCP and Y-LCP group stiffness, 5685.22 N/mm and 6591.10 N/mm, respectively). Arthrodesis of the PIJ using a DCP and two transarticular 5.5-mm cortical screws or a Y-LCP yielded biomechanically equivalent outcomes under the test conditions considered. However, Y-LCP provides less impact in the palmar/plantar bone. Application of Y-LCP with unicortical screws has equivalent biomechanical characteristics of DCP and may be a safe option for PIJ arthrodesis, where potential trauma secondary to applying bicortical screws in the palmar/plantar aspect of the pastern can be avoided.

Feet and legs of replacement females were objectively evaluated at selection, i.e., approximately 150 d of age (n = 319) and post first parity, i.e., any time after weaning of first litter and before second parturition (n = 277) to 1) compare feet and leg joint angle ranges between selection and post first parity; 2) identify feet and leg joint angle differences between selection and first 3 wk of second gestation; 3) identify feet and leg joint angle differences between farms and gestation days during second gestation; and 4) obtain genetic variance components for conformation angles for the two time points measured. Angles for carpal joint (knee), metacarpophalangeal joint (front pastern), metatarsophalangeal joint (rear pastern), tarsal joint (hock), and rear stance were measured using image analysis software. Between selection and post first parity, significant differences were observed for all joints measured (P < 0.05). Knee, front and rear pastern angles were less (more flexion), and hock angles were greater (less flexion) as age progressed (P < 0.05), while the rear stance pattern was less (feet further under center) at selection than post first parity (only including measures during first 3 wk of second gestation). Only using post first parity leg conformation information, farm was a significant source of variation for front and rear pasterns and rear stance angle measurements (P < 0.05). Knee angle was less (more flexion; P < 0.05) as gestation age progressed. Heritability estimates were low to moderate (0.04–0.35) for all traits measured across time points. Genetic correlations between the same joints at different time points were high (>0.8) between the front leg joints and low (

Detection of hoof-on and -off events are essential to gait classification in horses. Wearable sensors have been endorsed as a convenient alternative to the traditional force plate-based method. The aim of this study was to propose and validate inertial sensor-based methods of gait event detection, reviewing different sensor locations and their performance on different gaits and exercise surfaces. Eleven horses of various breeds and ages were recruited to wear inertial sensors attached to the hooves, pasterns and cannons. Gait events detected by pastern and cannon methods were compared to the reference, hoof-detected events. Walk and trot strides were recorded on asphalt, grass and sand. Pastern-based methods were found to be the most accurate and precise for detecting gait events, incurring mean errors of between 1 and 6ms, depending on the limb and gait, on asphalt. These methods incurred consistent errors when used to measure stance durations on all surfaces, with mean errors of 0.1 to 1.16% of a stride cycle. In conclusion, the methods developed and validated here will enable future studies to reliably detect equine gait events using inertial sensors, under a wide variety of field conditions.

A five-year-old Holstein bull became lame after dismount during semen collection. Swelling of the pastern of the left front limb was noted. Radiographic images showed biaxial hyperflexion of the proximal interphalangeal joints in digits III/IV without hyperextension of the metacarpophalangeal joint. Conservative management (stall confinement and NSAIDs) failed to resolve the lameness. External coaptation to stabilise the joint failed to prevent hyperflexion of the joint within the cast and to improve comfort. Pressure sores developed after seven days. Surgical arthrodesis of the PIP joint was performed on each digit by application of a locking compression plate. The bull healed and arthrodesis of the joints progressed over the next 16 weeks. At that time, the bull was walking sound and was returned to semen collection. One year after surgery, the attending veterinarian reported that the bull remained sound at a walk and was still being used for semen collection.

The aim of this pilot study was to document the effects of endurance training at different intensities on heart rate (HR), blood count, serum cortisol, and maximal temperatures of different body locations, namely eye, crown, pastern pasterns, gluteus and longissimus dorsi muscle (mm), measured by infrared thermography technique (IRT) in horses trained for endurance. Possible associations among the studied parameters were also investigated. Our hypothesis was that temperature, measured by IRT after endurance training of different intensities would vary depending on the intensity and would be positively correlated with HR and serum cortisol. Eight horses were tested before and after training of different intensities (low, moderate, and high). The results partially supported our hypothesis, all the studied parameters increased after training (p &lt, 0.05), eye temperature (ET) correlated positively with HR (p &lt, 0.01), and crown temperature (CT) correlated positively with cortisol (p &lt, 0.01). However, only HR and white blood cells increased with the intensity of the exercise (p = 0.0016 and p = 0.0142, respectively). Our findings suggest the evaluation of ET and CT may become a useful non-invasive tool to detect physiological stress during training and to evaluate how the horses cope with the training. Infrared thermography technique may also become a useful tool for the early identification of horses that are not fit to compete or to continue the competition. However, further studies should be conducted on a larger number of horses and during competitions to ascertain our preliminary findings.

The research was conducted on 10 stallions and 31 mares of the Lipizzaner breed in the stud “Vucijak” Prnjavor. In general, 28 morphometric measures of stallions and mares were taken. Morphometric characterization shows that the “Vucijak” stud farm owns Lipizzaner with smaller body form comparing to other Lipizzaner around Europe. The body of the Lipizzaner from “Vucijak” has a rectangle shape which is in acBcordance with the appearance of the majority of Lipizzaner in Europe. Based on these measures, it is confirmed that there is a statistically significant difference between stallions and mares in: withers height, width of lower jaw, length of neck and shoulders, length of radius, width of chest, length and width of pelvis, volume of front leg tibia, and length of hind leg long pastern (proximal phalanx). Out of all named, in comparison to stallions, mares have bigger morphometric measures of length of shoulders, width of pelvis and length of hind leg long pastern (proximal phalanx). In the remaining 18 measures stallions and mares of the “Vucijak” stud show certain homogeny.

The case of a 4.5-year-old Colombian Creole female equine was brought to the clinic with suspected transverse and vertical comminuted fracture of the second phalanx in the right forelimb with three days of evolution. Upon clinical examination, claudication of the affected limb was observed, categorized as 4/5, presenting inflammation and swelling related to the coronary impeller. An orthogonal radiographic study was performed at the pastern level in the affected limb, finding a comminuted vertical fracture related to the dorsal aspect of the second phalanx and a transverse fracture in the palmar portion. It was decided to perform orthopedic surgery to reduce de fracture and to apply osteosynthesis material. The patient responded satisfactorily to surgical treatment. Orthopedic clinical follow-up was performed for two months, obtaining complete recovery of the patient., Se reporta el caso de un equino hembra de raza criollo colombiano de 4.5 años edad y peso de 312 kg que llega a consulta con sospecha de fractura transversa y vertical conminuta de la segunda falange en el miembro anterior derecho con tres días de evolución. Al examen clínico se observa claudicación del miembro afectado categorizada en 4/5, presentando inflamación y tumefacción relacionado al rodete coronario. Se realiza un estudio radiográfico ortogonal a nivel de la cuartilla en el miembro afectado, encontrando una fractura vertical conminuta relacionada al aspecto dorsal de la segunda falange y fractura transversa en la porción palmar. Se decide realizar cirugía ortopédica para la reducción de la fractura y aplicación de material de osteosíntesis. La paciente respondió satisfactoriamente al tratamiento quirúrgico. Se realizó seguimiento clínico ortopédico durante dos meses, obteniendo la recuperación completa del paciente.

Neurolytic compounds are widely used by equine practitioners for the management of lameness, mostly related to the foot. The present study aimed to evaluate the neurotoxicity of 2% ammonium chloride (2% AC) applied adjacent to the palmar digital nerves in six miniature horses. The 2% AC and 0.9% saline solution were randomly injected into three and one palmar digital nerve of each horse, respectively. Nerve samples were collected by neurectomy performed under general anesthesia at 5, 12, 19, 35, 47, and 62 days after treatment, with one horse per day of surgery. The inflammatory reaction to perineural injection was evaluated by an increase of pastern superficial skin temperature through thermography 24 hours after treatments. Histological lesions were classified as absent, mild, moderate, and severe Wallerian degeneration. An increase of 2.43 ± 0.79°C and 1.69 ± 0.55°C was observed in the 2% AC and control groups, respectively (P > .05). Moreover, histologic lesions were observed after perineural injection of 2% AC (severe, n = 5/18; moderate, n = 4/18; mild, n = 5/18; and absent, n = 4/18) and saline solution (moderate, n = 3/6; mild, n = 1/6; and absent, n = 2/6) (P = .46). The 2% AC demonstrated to be as safe as 0.9% saline solution, producing mild to severe Wallerian degeneration for up to 62 days after injection with no interference in further neurectomy.

In order to improve the four-beat-rhythm and forelimb action of the tolt in Icelandic horses (ICE), special shoeing techniques are applied particularly in the front hooves by increasing hoof length and height, or by adding weight to the distal limbs. Although regulations limit dorsal hoof wall length (LDHW) in competition ICE, their shoeing often deviates from a biomechanically optimal distal limb conformation. This study aimed to qualitatively and quantitatively describe current shoeing practices of ICE in competition. Moreover, the influence of LDHW on the occurrence of deviations from a standard hoof conformation, as well as on tolt performance was investigated. At four European competition sites, hoof dimensions of 133 randomly selected ICE were measured manually, and limb conformation and hoof balance were described. Dorsopalmar/-plantar and lateromedial radiographs of the left front and hind hooves were taken of each horse. Various parameters related to hoof dimensions and balance were measured on radiographs using the Metron-Hoof-Pro software. Flares of the dorsal hoof wall had the highest prevalence of all investigated hoof deformities. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that longer LDHW was associated with the occurrence of toe flares (P = 0.045), a broken hoof pastern axis (P = 0.003), and asymmetry of the quarter wall heights (P = 0.015). However, horses with a longer LDHW achieved higher scores in competition. In spite of its positive effect on tolt performance, a long LDHW is not recommendable as it may be associated with a higher prevalence of certain hoof deformities.

Objectives Digital cryotherapy is commonly used for laminitis prophylaxis and treatment. Currently validated methods for distal limb cryotherapy involve wet application or compression technology. There is a need for a practical, affordable, dry cryotherapy method that effectively cools the digit. The objective of this study was to evaluate the hoof wall surface temperatures (HWSTs) achieved with a novel dry cryotherapy technology. Design Repeated-measures in vivo experimental study. Setting Experimental intervention at a single site. Participants 6 systemically healthy horses (3 mares, 3 geldings). Interventions Cryotherapy was applied to six horses for eight hours with a commercially available rubber and rubber and welded fabricice boot, which extended proximally to include the foot and pastern. Reusable malleable cold therapy packs were secured against the foot and pastern with the three built-in hook-and-loop fastener panels. Primary and secondary outcome measures HWST and pastern surface temperature of the cryotherapy-treated limb, HWST of the control limb and ambient temperature were recorded every five minutes throughout the study period. Results Results were analysed with mixed-effects multivariable regression analysis. The HWST (median 11.1°C, interquartile range 8.6°C–14.7°C) in the cryotherapy-treated limb was significantly decreased compared with the control limb (median 29.7°C, interquartile range 28.9°C–30.4°C) (P≤0.001). Cryotherapy limb HWST reached a minimum of 6.75°C (median) with an interquartile range of 4.1°C–9.3°C. Minimum HWST was achieved 68 minutes after cryotherapy pack application. Conclusions Dry application of cryotherapy significantly reduced HWST and reached minimums below the therapeutic target of 10°C. This cryotherapy method might offer an effective alternative for digital cooling.

In the last 30 years the amount of white markings in the population of Franches-Montagnes horses (FM) has more than doubled which has led to some controversy, particularly in respect to the health of the horses. The objective of this study was to investigate if the coat colour and white markings have an impact on selected skin diseases and hoof horn abnormalities. To this purpose 974 three-year-old FM were subjected to a clinical examination during the field and station tests organized by the FM breeding association. In 16.9% of the horses, one or several equine sarcoids were detected, 15.2% of the horses showed clinical signs of pastern dermatitis, 1.1% of insect bite hypersensitivity and 18.0% of dermatitis of other aetiology. Abnormalities of the hoof horn were found in 20.1% of the horses. The prevalence of pastern dermatitis was 2.6 times higher in legs with white markings than in legs with pigmented skin (p

Background: The objectives of this study were to create an objective measurement method of joint angles for knee, hock, front and rear pasterns and a rear stance position in swine using digital imaging technology and to assess the repeatability of the objective measurement process. Methods and Findings: Forty-five multiparous sows (average parity 6.7 ± 2.5; parity range 5 to 14) from two commercial farms (n=21 farm 1 and n=24 farm 2) were used. Sows were moved to a pen where digital images of the profile and rear stance were captured. On average, 5.2 (± 2.6) profile and 2.6 (± 1.0) rear stance high quality images were used per sow. A joint angle measuring system was devised to collect angle measurements on the four feet and leg joints previously mentioned and the rear stance. Joint measurements were analyzed using repeated measure mixed model methods, including farm and parity (as 5, 6, and 7+) as fixed effects. Intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated to evaluate process repeatability. Joint angle measurement repeatability ranged from 0.63 to 0.82. Lowest and highest repeatabilities were observed for the front pastern and hock angle measurements, respectively. No significant farm or parity differences were observed for joint angles measured except for the knee angle between farms (P

An 18-month-old warmblood filly was 4/5 lame on the front right limb at referral and showed severe swelling of the right shoulder region and pain during manipulation of the shoulder region. Radiography revealed a roundish 5 × 7 cm radiolucent area with defined borders within the greater tubercle and the presence of a fracture of the lateral tubercle associated with the cyst. Cellular blood count was 27,500 WBC/μL and serum biochemical analyses revealed fibrinogen of 855 mg/dL. The fractured bone was removed surgically; the cyst debrided and filled with autologous cancellous bone graft. Three and five weeks after surgery the filly was reoperated on because of an osseous sequestrum and a periostal defect on the distal dorsolateral aspect of the pastern of the right hind limb and a septic synovitis of the DFTS of the left hind limb. Fifteen month after surgery the filly was not lame and was introduced to training. Unicameral bone cysts (UBC) are well described lesions, often associated to pathologic fracture in the proximal humerus of children but, until present, no scientific report exists of UBC in the foal. The prompt surgical management had a favorable outcome.

The purpose of this study was to create a lower forelimb model of the Thoroughbred horse for measuring the force in the superficial and deep digital flexor tendons (SDFT and DDFT), and the suspensory ligament (SL) during a trot. The mass, centers of gravity, and inertial moments in the metacarpus, pastern, and hoof segments were measured in 4 Thoroughbred horses. The moment arms of the SDFT, DDFT, and SL in the metacarpophalangeal (fetlock) and distal interphalangeal (coffin) joints were measured in 7 Thoroughbred horses. The relationship between the fetlock joint angle and the force in the SL was assessed in 3 limbs of 2 Thoroughbred horses. The forces in the SDFT, DDFT, and SL during a trot were also measured in 7 Thoroughbred horses. The mass of the 3 segments, and the moment arms of the SDFT and DDFT in the fetlock joint of the Thoroughbred horses were smaller than those of the Warmblood horses, whereas the other values were almost the same in the 2 types. The calculated force in the SDFT with this Thoroughbred model reached a peak (4,615 N) at 39.3% of the stance phase, whereas that in the DDFT reached a peak (5,076 N) at 51.2% of the stance phase. The force in the SL reached a peak (11,957 N) at 49.4% of the stance phase. This lower forelimb model of the Thoroughbred can be applied to studying the effects of different shoe types and change of hoof angle for the flexor tendon and SL forces.

A 5-year-old Arabian mare was referred for the investigation of recent behavioural change, generalised stiffness, and owner-reported polyuria and polydipsia. Clinical examination revealed severe pain associated with palpation along the entire length of the suspensory ligament (SL) and palmar soft tissues of the pastern regions of both forelimbs. Radiographs of the distal forelimbs demonstrated marked radiopaque striations within the straight sesamoidean ligaments (SSL), and less severe but similar changes in the regions of the SL branches. Ultrasonography of both distal forelimbs revealed multifocal, hyperechoic lesions within the SSLs. The SL bodies and branches were enlarged and had mixed echogenicity on ultrasound scan. The horse was euthanased at the owner’s request and submitted for post-mortem examination. Relevant gross findings were restricted to the SLs and SSLs of all four limbs, all of which contained severe mineralisation and irregularly arranged fibres. Histological examination revealed severe, multifocal to coalescing, dystrophic mineralization with cartilaginous and osseous metaplasia, which suggested a primary calcifying desmopathy affecting all four SLs and SSLs. Clinical findings in the case reported here were similar to that of degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis (DSLD) previously reported by many authors, but diagnostic imaging and histopathological findings were significantly different.

Verrucous hemangiomas are a rare specific variant of equine skin tumors not well described in the literature. An 8-year-old gelding presented a unilateral lesion on the pastern. Macroscopically, the mass showed a warty and verrucous surface with focal ulcerations. The histology showed a dermal proliferation of endothelial-layered capillaries and venules separated by a delicate stroma of scant fibroblasts and collagen deposition, with pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia (exuberant reactive irregular epithelial hyperplasia with tongue-like projections extending into the dermis, mimicking downgrowth of squamous cell carcinoma) and orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis of the overlying epidermis. The immunohistochemical study confirmed the endothelial origin of the tumor, and a final diagnosis of verrucous hemangioma with pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia was confirmed. To the knowledge of the authors, this is the first detailed description of this entity in adult horses. Moreover, the clinical progression and epidermal changes have not been previously reported, emphasizing the importance of a pathological study of any epithelial preneoplastic lesion to rule out an underlying dermal neoplasia.

This study aimed to evaluate, through biometry, the forelimb hoof of horses participating in show jumping, barrel, long rope and polo competitions. Thirty subjects were assessed in relation to each competition (total of 120 animals). The linear measurements (cm) included the dorsal length of the toe; medial and lateral lengths of the quarter; medial and lateral heights of the quarter; lateral and medial lengths of the heel; medial and lateral heights of the heel; hoof length; hoof width; frog length; and frog width. The following angles (°) were measured: toe angle, pastern angle, heel angle and shoulder palette. The length of the horseshoe, coronet circumference and body weight were also assessed. With the use of hoof biometric evaluation was possible to identify the imbalances of forelimb in athletic horses and the most common were broken-backward hoof angle, with 96.7% of the animals showing this in the right forelimb (RFL) and 95.8% in the left forelimb (LFL); and contracted heels, with 95.0% in the RFL and 87.6% in the LFL. The competition type in which greatest numbers of hoof balance abnormalities were shown was the long rope, followed by the barrel. There were high frequencies of medial/lateral imbalance in all the sports. We conclude that animals used in functional tests have a high incidence of hoof balance abnormalities in the forelimbs. Objetivou-se avaliar, através da biometria, os cascos dos membros anteriores de equinos participantes de provas de Hipismo Clássico, Tambor, Laço Comprido e Pólo. Em cada modalidade foram avaliados 30 indivíduos totalizando 120 animais. As mensurações lineares (cm) incluíram o comprimento dorsal da pinça, comprimentos lateral e medial dos quartos, altura medial e lateral dos quartos, comprimento lateral e medial dos talões, alturas lateral e medial dos talões, comprimento do casco, largura do casco, comprimento da ranilha, largura da ranilha, e as angulares (graus) foram relativas ao ângulo do casco medido pela pinça (podogoniometria), ângulo da quartela, ângulo dos talões, ângulo das paletas. O comprimento da ferradura, circunferência da coroa do casco e peso corporal também foram avaliados. Através da biometria do casco foi possível avaliar os desequilíbrios do membro anterior de animais atletas e os mais comuns foram: quebra do eixo podal, com 96,7% dos animais apresentando essa alteração no membro torácico direito (MTD) e 95,8% no membro torácico esquerdo (MTE); talões contraídos com 95,0% no MTD e 87,6% no MTE. A modalidade com os maiores desequilíbrios foi a de Laço Comprido, seguida pelos animais de Tambor. Foi encontrada uma alta frequência de desequilíbrio médio lateral em todas as modalidades desportivas. Conclui-se que animais utilizados em provas funcionais apresentam uma alta incidência de desequilíbrios podal nos membros torácicos.

The aim of the study was to compare densitometric and geometric parameters of the proximal phalanges in forelimbs of Warmblood and Coldblood horses, at 15%, 50%, and 85% of the bone proximal length. Peripheral quantitative computed tomography was used to analyse the structure of phalanges. The following parameters were determined: bone mineral content, volumetric bone mineral density, total bone area, trabecular area, cortical area, cortical thickness, periosteal circumference, endocortical circumference, and strength strain index. The most significant differences between pastern bones in thoracic limbs of the horses were visible in the proximal and distal metaphyseal parts, for instance. at 15% and 85% of the bone length, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that at 15% of the bone length, total bone area, trabecular area, periosteal circumference, and endocortical circumference were significantly higher in Warmblood horses. At the mid-shaft, volumetric bone mineral density and endocortical circumference were significantly higher in Coldblood horses. At 85% of the bone length, volumetric bone mineral density, total bone area, trabecular area, periosteal circumference, and endocortical circumference were significantly higher in Coldblood horses.

Deep digital flexor (DDF) tenotomy is a technique employed for years to treat selected disorders of the musculoskeletal system in horses. Although two different surgical approaches (i.e. mid-metacarpal and pastern) have been described for performing the procedure, in vitro quantitative data regarding the modifications induced by either technique on the distal articular angles is lacking. Therefore, the purpose of the study reported here was to investigate the viability of a proposed biomechanical system of induced-traction used to compare the two DDF tenotomy techniques by measuring the distal articular angles of equine cadaver forelimbs. Ten pairs of forelimbs were collected and mounted to a biomechanical system developed to apply traction at the toe level. Dorsal articular angles of the metacarpophalangeal (MP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints were determined by geometric lines on radiographs taken before and after performing each technique. Comparisons between each tenotomy group and its own control, for each joint, and between the two tenotomy groups using as variable the difference between the tenotomy and control groups were tested. Despite the lack of statistical significance, the DDF tenotomy technique at the pastern level produced extension, to a lesser and greater extent, of the PIP and DIP joints, respectively when compared to the mid-metacarpal level. No remarkable differences could be observed for the MP joint. The developed traction-induced biomechanical construct seemed to be effective in producing valuable quantitative estimations of the distal articular angles of equine cadaver forelimbs subjected to different DDF tenotomy techniques.

Summary of Injury Characteristics by Group for 106 Horses with Lacerations of the Digital Flexor Tendons, Suspensory Ligament, and/orDistal Sesamoidean LigamentsStructuresAffected (n=106)Total(n=106)Limb Region(n=106)OpenTendon Sheathn=61 (58%)SuturedTendonn=58 (55%)Casting (n=104)FetlockHyperextensionSDFT DDFT SL/DSL Pr M D Pa (n=15)wNumber ofHorses (n=84)Period (Weeks)Median [Range]Group 1 60 (57%) 36 24 41 (68% ofGroup 1)4.7 [1–12] 1P x x 27 1 8 13 5 13 9 18 4.8 [2–12]zP P x 13 1 1 4 7 9 9 10 6.2 [1.5–12]x P x 10 10 9 2 7 4.3 [3–7] 1x x P 7 1 5 1 2 3 4 1.75 [1–2]PP P 2 11 2 1 1 2Px P 1 1 1 1 6Group 2 46 (43%) 25 34 43 (98% ofGroup 2)7 [0.5–14] 14TP x 17 3842 7 12 15 6.7 [0.5–14] 3T T x 10 1 5 4 5 9 10 8.5 [4–10] 4T T P 6 2 1 2 1 4 6 6 7 [1–11] 4T x x 4 1 3 3 2 4 6 [4–8]TP P 2 1 1 2 2 6z 1T T T 2 2 2 1 2 6 [4–8] 1Tx P 1 1 1 1 12 1PT P 1 1 1 1 2PT x 1 1 1xT T 1 1 1 1 2xT x 1 1 1 1 1 6Group 1, horses with partial transection of 1 or more tendons or ligaments (SDFT, DDFT, SL, and DSL).Group 2, horses with complete transection of 1 or more tendons or ligaments (SDFT, DDFT, SL, and DSL). In 2 cases, suturing or cast application was not recorded.wIn 11 horses, the information on fetlock hyperextension was not available.zIn 2 horses, the information for casting period was not available.SDFT, superficial digital flexor tendon; DDFT, deep digital flexor tendon; SL, suspensory ligament; DSL, distal sesamoidean ligaments; P, partialtransection of a tendon or a ligament; T, total transection of a tendon or a ligament; x, tendon or ligament not affected; Pr, proximal third of meta-carpus/metatarsus; M, middle third of metacarpus/metatarsus; D, distal third of metacarpus/metatarsus; Pa, pastern.

The angulation of the equine fetlock determines the load of associated tendons and probably their predisposition for injuries. However, it is questionable how the individual toe conformation and tendon properties interact with the dorsal metacarpophalangeal joint angle (DMPJ). Data are needed for a tangible evaluation of the equine limb conformation for more specific orthopaedic treatment. The aim was to evaluate the correlation between the DMPJ, toe conformation and cross-sectional area (CSA) of both flexor tendons; the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT). Thirty Warmblood horses were available for the study. Lateromedial radiographs of the toe and fetlock and transverse ultrasound images of both flexor tendons were obtained from three zones. The DMPJ, length and angle of the phalanges and CSA SDFT/DDFT were measured. In addition, hoof angle, wither height, age, and sex were documented. Correlations were calculated using Pearson’s test. A paired t-test was used to evaluate left–right differences. Length and angle of the proximal and middle phalanx were significantly associated with the DMPJ (r = -0.28 – -0.45, p