Arthroscopic removal of a solitary osteochondroma interfering with the podotrochlear apparatus in a foal.

OBJECTIVE

To report the diagnostics, surgical treatment, and outcome of a juvenile foal with solitary osteochondroma (SO) interfering with the podotrochlear apparatus.

STUDY DESIGN

Case report ANIMAL: One 36-day-old Arabian colt.

METHODS

Clinical, radiographic, ultrasonographic, computed tomographic, and histopathologic examinations were required to characterize and treat an SO located at the palmar aspect of the diaphysis of the second phalanx of the left forelimb. This SO caused severe distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) inflammation, marked interference with the podotrochlear apparatus, and associated lameness.

RESULTS

Despite the small size of the foal's foot, complete resection of the SO was possible via palmar DIPJ arthroscopy by using motorized equipment. Full resolution of the lameness was achieved within 3 months of surgery.

CONCLUSION

Atypical SO located on the palmar aspect of the second phalanx can cause marked nonseptic inflammation of the DIPJ and interference with the podotrochlear apparatus and should be considered among the differential diagnoses for severe lameness in juvenile foals. Arthroscopic resection of the SO led to an excellent outcome.