What’s your diagnosis?
An 8 year old, 1D Barrel Horse presents with a grade 2/5 LF lameness. Flexes positive to the LF lower limb flexion (pastern/fetlock).
What is your diagnosis and next steps/treatments?
![1](https://saginawvalleyequine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/1.png)
![2](https://saginawvalleyequine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2.png)
![3](https://saginawvalleyequine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/3.png)
![4](https://saginawvalleyequine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/4.png)
The Saginaw Valley Equine Answer
Answer: This horse suffered from severe pastern arthritis (ringbone). After careful deliberation, the decision was made to fuse the joint surgically with a plate and screws. We can see the SVEC surgical team placing the hardware in this video (x-rays are in the comments). He will stay in a cast for 6-8 weeks post op and is expected to make a full recovery.
We have had good success with this procedure under the right circumstances for pasture soundness, as well as going on to their previous level of competition!
![6](https://saginawvalleyequine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/6.jpg)