Osteochondral fragmentation of the cervical articular process joints

The take home message here is that most of the horses studied had multiple lesions of the cervical spine and it was difficult to determine which lesion was the most important one. Caution interpreting spinal lesions must be exercised with attempts to use other modalities to localize lesions important.
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Osteochondral fragmentation of the cervical articular process joints; prevalence in horses undergoing CT for investigation of cervical dysfunction
Equine Vet J. 2020 Dec 23.
Authors
Rachel Tucker 1 , Yvonne S Hall 1 , Thomas K Hughes 1 , Russel A Parker 1

Abstract

Background: Computed tomography (CT) imaging of the cervical spine of mature horses under general anaesthesia is becoming increasingly accessible. Osteochondral fragmentation (OF) of the cervical articular process joints (APJs) has been identified on CT imaging; the prevalence, clinical features and significance of this finding are currently unknown.

Objectives: To describe the prevalence and clinical features of a population of horses with CT evidence of OF within the cervical APJs.

Study design: Retrospective, descriptive case series.

Methods: The study population consisted of all horses undergoing CT imaging of the entire cervical spine between April 2016 and December 2019 at Liphook Equine Hospital for investigation of clinical signs localised to this region. CT scans were examined for evidence of OF within the APJs and additional case features were recorded.

Results: 55 horses underwent CT imaging during the study period. OF was identified in 13 horses, giving a CT prevalence of 24% in the study population. OF occurred in a range of ages, breeds and uses of equine, presenting with varied clinical signs. They were identified at every level of the neck. Additional cervical pathology was identified in 11/13 OF cases.

Main limitations: Retrospective analysis of a clinical caseload with a lack of clinically normal controls or post mortem confirmation of imaging findings. Low case numbers.

Conclusions: OF within the cervical APJs is recognised on CT imaging in horses with cervical dysfunction. Fragments are commonly identified in combination with additional cervical pathology. Further investigation is required to confirm their clinical significance and develop potential treatment options where necessary.