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Acute severe unilateral lameness associated with proliferative bone on the dorsal aspect of the middle phalanx: an evaluation of 19 cases
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  • Jennifer Fowlie,
  • Henry O'Neill,
  • Frank Nickels,
  • Shawn Mattson
Jennifer Fowlie
Moore Equine Veterinary Centre

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Henry O'Neill
Donnington Grove Veterinary Group Limited
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Frank Nickels
Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine
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Shawn Mattson
Moore Equine Veterinary Centre
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Abstract

Background: Injury resulting in proliferative new bone formation on the dorsal aspect of the middle phalanx (P2) has been recognised by equine veterinarians and is generally referred to as capsulitis. Objectives: Describe the clinical features, treatment, and outcomes of this condition. Study Design: Case series (n=19) Methods: Clinical cases in which the horse presented for lameness and were diagnosed with acute formation of proliferative bone on the dorsal aspect of P2 were included in the study (cases collected from 2005-2022). Signalment, history, presenting clinical signs, diagnostics, treatments administered, and outcome were evaluated. Results: Horses presented with unilateral lameness that were all classified as either a moderate lameness at a trot (n=6), or a moderate to severe lameness at a walk (n=13). The presentation of lameness was recorded as acute in 15/19 horses and not reported in the remainder. Bone proliferation on the dorsal aspect of P2 was diagnosed on radiographic evaluation in all horses (as part of the inclusion criteria). In horses with sequential radiographs made from the time of acute presentation, the bone production developed rapidly over a period of a few weeks to 2 months. A variety of therapeutic options were implemented, and 13/19 (68%) of the cases were subject to humane euthanasia with only one horse returning to its previous athletic function. Milder cases were more likely to have better outcomes. Main Limitations: Small sample size. Conclusions: Acute new bone proliferation on the dorsal aspect of P2 may be associated with moderate to severe lameness and carries a poor prognosis for return to athletic performance and survival.
27 Mar 2024Submission Checks Completed
27 Mar 2024Assigned to Editor
30 Mar 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned
20 Jun 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
17 Oct 20241st Revision Received
17 Oct 2024Submission Checks Completed
17 Oct 2024Assigned to Editor
21 Oct 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned