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  Discussion on Back of the knee lameness?
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Posted on Thursday, Dec 21, 2000 - 4:39 pm:

I've just acquired a 4 yr old TB who was in regular racing until three weeks ago, when he pulled up very lame on his left front. The track veterinarian told me that he thought it was just cartilage damage to the knee, not a bone chip, and the horse would probably heal with several months of rest. The trainer who sold him to me said no xrays had been taken.

I've had my own vet take xrays, which show that the front of the leg is clean -- no bone chips, not much other damage. But she suspects the problem is with the back of the knee, perhaps due to a hyperextension trauma of some sort. We're going to take another round of xrays, focusing on the back of the joint.

The leg appears to bear weight comfortably at a standstill. He shows very little lameness at a quiet walk, but he cannot bear anything that requires flexion like trotting or stepping over an obstacle.

I'd like to know how common it is to have a bone chip at the BACK of the knee? Has anyone else had a similar problem?

He's now on MSM, chonDrOitin sulfate and glucosamine, with hand walking and/or light turnout each day. His shoes have been pulled.

I bought the horse for a song, mostly to save him and give him a good home because he's got the sweetest disposition of any TB I've ever met. I have no plans for anything beyond what this guy will be capable of -- if he can be made sound and comfortable for light trail riding, I'll be delighted.

Any shared experiences or insights will be appreciated.

Posted on Friday, Dec 22, 2000 - 8:18 am:

Fractures of the accesory carpal bone, in the back of the knee is not uncommon, but should have shown up on a standard set of carpal radiographs. Avulsion fractures at the insertion of the check ligament also occur on the back on the knee. Perhaps she needs to adjust her technique a bit. Usually it is better is to try to localize the lameness if it is not apparent on the first then radiograph. The prognosis of a fracture will depend on the position, size, and displacement of the fracture. See the diagnosis of lameness for procedures.
DrO
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