Page 216 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

Warning
If the foreign body, e.g. a nail or metal spike is still in the foot, it is very important
VetBooks.ir for the vet to know the angle and depth of penetration. This can be established by

taking an X-ray before the object is removed. If there is no danger of the foreign

body penetrating any deeper, leave it where it is. If on the other hand, the horse is
likely to drive it deeper into the tissues by taking weight on the foot, try supporting
the foot on a block either side of the foreign body until the vet arrives. If it is

necessary to remove the foreign body, make a note of the angle of penetration and
the length of the foreign body that was inside the foot, then protect the foot with a

clean dressing.

Shallow penetrations of the foot are unlikely to result in complications. The risks associated
with deep penetrations vary with the location of the injury (Figures 6.17a and b). Deep

penetrations in the front third of the foot may result in fracture or infection of the pedal bone.
Injuries to the back two thirds of the foot put the following structures at risk:

• the coffin joint

• the navicular bone
• the navicular bursa

• the deep digital flexor tendon and its sheath.

Figures 6.17a and b Foot divided into 3 regions: a) ground surface of the foot; b) section through the foot