J.V. Yovich

Miscellaneous Conditions of the Equine Foot

The etiology, clinical presentation, radiographic findings, diagnostic criteria, differential diagnoses, treatment, and prognosis are reviewed for several clinically important conditions of the equine foot. These include pedal osteitis, sheared heels, distal sesamoid bone (navicular) fractures, subchondral bone cyst of the distal phalanx, distal interphalangeal joint subluxation, congenital phalangeal hypoplasia, bipartite and tripartite distal sesamoid bones, keratoma, ossification of the cartilages of the distal phalanx (sidebones), necrosis of the cartilages of the distal phalanx (quittor), thrush, canker, vesicular stomatitis, and chronic selenium toxicosis.

Fractures of the Distal Phalanx in the Horse

Fractures of the distal phalanx are an important cause of lameness referrable to the foot. Depending on the fracture configuration and articular involvement, conservative or surgical treatment may be required. Fractures of the distal phalanx have been divided into six categories based on fracture configuration. Discussion of clinical features, management, and prognosis for horses with distal phalangeal fractures is presented for each fracture type.

Penetrating wounds, abscesses, gravel, and bruising of the equine foot.

Foot-associated lamenesses are common diagnostic challenges for the equine practitioner. This article reviews the commonly occurring penetrating and concussive solar injuries of the equine foot. Diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for the management of these conditions are suggested. With proper treatment, many of these serious injuries will show excellent results.