Management of subchondral lucencies of the medial aspect of the equine antebrachiocarpal joint

Abstract Objective To describe the management and outcomes of eight horses with subchondral lucencies (SCLs) of the medial aspect of the antebrachiocarpal (ABC) joint. Methods the medical records and radiographs of the carpi of 8 horses with SCL of the medial aspect of the ABC joint were reviewed. Follow-up clinical information was obtained for 6-24 months (median duration of 14.75 months). Treatment was successful if radiographic healing was apparent or lameness was reduced or eliminated. Results Four horses had SCLs in the distomedial radius (DMR) and four in the proximal aspect of the radiocarpal bone (RCB). Lameness was present in all horses with DMR SCL and in one horse with an RCB SCL. Treatments included restriction of exercise (n=3), intra-articular administration of corticosteroids (n=2), or placement of a screw across the SCL (n=3). Exercise restriction alone was successful in three Conclusions Exercise restrictions and intra-articular administration of corticosteroids were successful in management of DMR SCL in five horses. Placing a screw across the SCL of three horses resulted in resolution of lameness and substantial improvement of the radiographic appearance of the lesion in the RCB or DMR.