Osteoarthritis of the Carpometacarpal Joint (Carpal Spavin): Treatment of 12 Cases by Arthrodesis

1. Introduction
Carpal spavin is a debilitating lameness characterized by swelling, proliferative new bone, narrowed joint space, and subchondral lysis at the MCII/C2 articulation. There is no successful treatment, and affected horses respond poorly to traditional treatments, have shortened careers, and an unfavorable prognosis of life.

2. Materials and Methods
Some owners were willing to have an experimental surgery performed on their affected horses in hopes of producing an arthrodesis and returning the horses to normal activity. A technique consisting of insertion of a drill bit into the joint at several locations was performed in 12 clinical cases (15 limbs). Follow-up radiographs were obtained for seven cases (nine legs). A telephone survey was performed to obtain long-term, follow-up information.

3. Results
Post-operative pain was not marked. Eleven of twelve horses were markedly improved by 6 mo and capable of returning to work. Radiographically, six carpometacarpal (CMC) joints had a bony ankylosis. All horses had reduced severity of lameness. Ten horses were considered “sound,” and eight horses returned to their original activity; all owners were pleased with the results. [...]