Evaluation of cervical articular process joints by needle arthroscope

It seems this week we are highlighting new diagnostic technology and the use of the needle arthroscope in the sedated standing horse seems to be a real game changer. In the past horses would have to go under general anesthesia contributing to greater risk to the patient and extra elapsed time and expense before a diagnosis and treatment plan could be formulated. We are currently working on several articles about these new technology’s and this will certainly be included. I am looking forward to the next eq med conference where I will be able to talk directly to the vendors. In the meantime here is yet another clinical report on the usefulness of this tool.
DrO

Vet Surg. 2020 Feb 5.
Evaluation of the caudal cervical articular process joints by using a needle arthroscope in standing horses.
Pérez-Nogués M1, Vaughan B1, Phillips KL1, Galuppo LD1 .

Author information:
1. Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:

To determine the safety and efficacy of caudal cervical articular process joint arthroscopy by using needle arthroscopy in standing sedated horses.
STUDY DESIGN:

Prospective experimental case series.
ANIMALS:

Six adult horses.
METHODS:

Three horses underwent exploration of bilateral C5-6 vertebral articular process joints and three bilateral C6-7 articular process joints by using a 1.2 × 65-mm needle arthroscope under standing sedation. The 16-gauge arthroscopic trocar and canula assembly was inserted in the desired articular process joint under ultrasonographic guidance without distention of the joint.
RESULTS:

All 12 articular process joints were successfully explored. Entering the joint on the first attempt was achieved in 10 of 12 joints. A craniodorsal approach for arthroscope insertion allowed evaluation of the most cranial aspect of the articular cartilage surface. Triangulation with a spinal needle was determined to be difficult and resulted in a limited space for movement.
CONCLUSION:

Needle arthroscopy of the caudal cervical facet joints was performed safely and efficiently in standing sedated horses.
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

Standing cervical articular process needle arthroscopy is a minimal morbidity technique with the potential to be an advantageous technique for the diagnosis and treatment of cervical articular process pathology.