Page 117 - Equine Clinical Medicine, Surgery and Reproduction, 2nd Edition

92 CHAPTER 1

VetBooks.ir 1.161 1.162

1.163

Figs. 1.161–1.163 Distal phalanx fractures. (1.161)
Fracture of the extensor process. (1.162) Mid-sagittal
articular fracture. (1.163) Non-articular fracture of
the palmar process (arrow).

been proposed according to the configuration and and training. Occasionally, fractures occur follow-
location of the fracture. ing penetration injuries or weakening of the bone
caused by septic osteitis or large cysts. Extensor pro-
Aetiology/pathophysiology cess fractures can be difficult to distinguish from a
Most distal phalangeal fractures occur following separate centre of ossification or an osteochondrosis
trauma or exercise on hard or uneven ground. Distal fragment, which are generally incidental radiologi-
phalangeal fractures are a common racing injury cal findings without associated lameness. Most solar
in North America, particularly in the lateral aspect margin fractures occur in conjunction with remod-
of the left front foot and the medial aspect of the elling of the distal phalanx of horses with chronic
right front foot, reflecting counter-clockwise racing laminitis. Foals may sustain non-articular palmar or