Tseliou A. DVM, Postgraduate Student, Companion Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, A.U.Th., Thessaloniki
Vathi N. DVM, Postgraduate Student, Companion Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, A.U.Th., Thessaloniki
Tyrnenopoulou P. DVM, Assistant Professor, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Karditsa
Diakakis N. DVM, Professor, Companion Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, A.U.Th., Thessaloniki
Introduction
The aim of this study was to present a case of equine 3rd phalanx osteomyelitis secondary to a hoof abscess.
Clinical case
A 20-year-old, gelding was admitted with left forelimb non-weight bearing lameness due to a hoof abscess. Initial treatment included placement of a hyperosmotic dressing, administration of penicillin- streptomycin, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. On re-examination, although the horse showed substantial clinical improvement, radiological examination revealed absorption of the 3rd phalanx with evidence of osteomyelitis. Surgical debridement was elected including blunt dissection of the sole and subcutis. The anterior part of the 3rd phalanx and compromised tissues were liberally removed. Finally, a second opening was created at the level of the dorsal hoof wall to allow daily lavage. Post-operatively, distal limb perfusion with amikacin solution was performed in 3 consecutive sessions.
Results
The sole deficit was gradually epithelialized over period of 3 months, at which time it was decided to place a heart-bar shoe with an open toe. Following farriery, the horse was able to walk soundly.
Conclusions
Although hoof abscess is considered a straightforward case, it may lead to complications, such as 3rd phalanx osteomyelitis. Timely initiation of antibiotic therapy is of utmost importance.
References
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- Engiles JB, Galantino HL, Boston R, McDonald D, Dishowitz M, Hankenson KD (2015) Osteopathology in the Equine distal phalanx associat- ed with the development and progression of laminitis. Veterinary pathology 52, 928 – 944.
- Goodrich LR (2006) Osteomyelitis in horses. In: Veterinary clinics of North America: Equine Practice 22(2), 389-417.
