Treatment and outcomes of horses with acute synovitis in the racing season: a ۱۶۷ case series study

Among the causes of lameness in horses, those of arthrogenic origin, especially synovitis, which can progress to advanced joint damages, such as osteoarthritis, are of importance in clinical practice. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the early diagnosis, treatment, and treatment outcomes of acute synovitis, which occur frequently in English and Arabian horses during the racing season. A total of ۱۶۷ joints of ۱۲۶ horses (۳۹ English and ۸۷ Arabian Thoroughbred) aged ۲-۴ years diagnosed with acute synovitis were evaluated using clinical, radiographic, and ultrasonographic examinations. The treatment protocol of horses consisted of cold hydrotherapy and light pressure bandage initially, followed by rest for ۱۰ days and controlled walking only, a single dose of phenylbutazone, and intra-articular corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid injection. Although functional improvement was observed in all the horses following this treatment, subsequent relapses occurred in ۲۲ cases. Consequently, it is important to comply with this treatment program and plan the treatment of acute synovitis in the early period. Controlled gaits, rather than absolute immobility, increase the success of treatment, especially in horses at rest. In addition, it is important to ensure that the relevant joint is not overburdened after the rest period in order to avoid relapses.

Keywords:

Joint , osteoarthritis , racehorse , synovitis