Racing performance of Standardbred horses following surgical treatment of apical proximal sesamoid bone fractures (49 cases)

Abstract

Background

Apical proximal sesamoid bone (PSB) fractures are a common occurrence in Standardbred racehorses due to the high-intensity nature of their work. Several studies have evaluated the racing performance after surgical removal of apical fracture fragments in Thoroughbred horses, however information pertaining to Standardbred racehorses is limited.

Objectives

To (i) describe the distribution of apical PSB fractures in a population of Standardbred racehorses; and (ii) measure return to athletic ability in these horses following surgical removal of apical PSB fracture fragments.

Study design

Retrospective.

Methods

Medical records of Standardbred racehorses presenting to the Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) for surgical treatment of an apical PSB fracture were reviewed. Lifetime racing records were obtained, and the five race starts before injury and the five race starts following surgical treatment were analysed for total earnings and number of top-3 placings for each horse.

Results

Thirty-three horses raced following surgery; 22 of which were racing prior to injury. No significant differences were found in top-3 placings or monetary earnings for the 22 horses which had raced prior to and after surgery. There was no significant difference in limb or sesamoid affected and return to racing. No associations were found between type of surgery performed or degree of suspensory desmitis and whether the horse returned to racing.

Main limitations

Small sample size.

Conclusions

88% of horses that were racing prior to injury also raced following surgical treatment of an apical PSB fracture. Surgical removal of apical PSB fractures in Standardbred racehorses does not appear to affect their future athletic ability.