Outcome after arthroscopic treatment of lateral femoral trochlear ridge osteochondrosis in sport horses

Abstract

To determine the short- and long-term outcome for sport horses after arthroscopic treatment of osteochondrosis of the lateral trochlear ridge of the femur. A retrospective study was performed using the medical records of horses intended for use as English sport horses. Outcome was obtained through telephone questionnaire. Thirty-seven horses, mainly Warmbloods, underwent arthroscopic surgery for treatment of lateral femoral trochlear ridge osteochondrosis. Short-term outcome revealed that 27 of 37 horses had no complications. Seven horses had postoperative lameness and effusion which eventually resolved in four horses. Long-term outcome was available for 29 horses, of which 19 were performing to full expectations. Five horses were athletic but at a lower level than expected, and five horses were unable to be used. The depth of the lesion was significantly associated with short-term complications of effusion and lameness. The depth and length of the lesion were not associated with the long-term outcome, but involvement of structures other than the lateral trochlear ridge (patella, medial trochlear ridge) was associated with a worse prognosis. The prognosis for sport horses following stifle arthroscopy for lateral trochlear ridge is similar to that reported in other studies and lesions at other sites within the stifle joint.