Standing myotomy to treat fibrotic myopathy: 22 cases (2004-2016).

Abstract

To report the clinical and diagnostic findings associated with fibrotic myopathy, describe the surgical procedure for standing fibrotic myotomy and report postoperative outcomes. Retrospective study. Twenty-two horses. Records were included if a clinical diagnosis of fibrotic myopathy was based on clinical and/or ultrasonographic examination and the horse was treated with myotomy of the affected muscle. Records were reviewed for signalment, preoperative findings, perioperative complications, and outcomes. Follow-up also included a phone survey of owners. Quarter horses represented 14 of 22 horses in this study. Ultrasonographic examination was performed in 14 of 22 horses. The semitendinosus muscle was affected in 17 of 22 horses. Other muscles affected included the semimembranosus, gracilis, and biceps femoris. Four of the 22 horses had a diagnosis of incisional postoperative complications. Eight of 12 formerly athletic horses returned to their intended athletic use. Ten of 16 owners were satisfied with the procedure. Prognosis for long-term comfort after standing fibrotic myotomy was fair with appropriate rehabilitation. Ultrasonographic examination was helpful in identifying the muscles affected and aided in surgical planning. Standing fibrotic myotomy is a technically straightforward procedure that yields a fair outcome in horses with minimal intraoperative and/or postoperative complications.