Page 220 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
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Figure 6.20 Leaking contrast medium confirms penetration of the navicular bursa
Damage to bone may not show up on the radiographs until 10–14 days after the injury
occurs and repeat examinations may be required.
EXAMINATION OF SYNOVIAL FLUID
If penetration of the coffin joint or navicular bursa is suspected, fluid will be aspirated and
examined. An elevated white cell count and increased protein level is indicative of infection.
The samples can also be cultured to identify specific bacteria and their sensitivity to different
antibiotics.
Treatment
Treatment depends on which structures have been damaged. It is likely to include:
• broad spectrum antibiotics
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate the inflammation and pain
• tetanus antitoxin
• surgery to remove any infected or damaged tissue
• flushing of infected synovial structures.
