Severe bilateral physitis with instability and Salter-Harris type 1 fractures in two foals

Authors
M. A. Jackson, M. Kummer, J. A. Auer, P. Ossent, M. Paar, A. E. Fürst
Date
November 2011
Journal
Equine Veterinary Education
Volume
23
Number
11
Pages
543-547

Summary
This Case Report describes the clinical, radiographic, computed tomographic and post mortem findings in 2 foals with severe bilateral physitis of the distal third metatarsal bones (MtIII). The foals were admitted because of bilateral hindlimb lameness of several weeks' duration. Initial examination revealed that the physeal regions of the distal MtIII were enlarged, warmer than normal and painful on palpation. Case 1 was treated conservatively and discharged but was readmitted 8 weeks later because of clinical deterioration. In both foals, radiographs showed plantar dislocation of both epiphyses through the physis and a Salter-Harris type 1 fracture. The foals were subjected to euthanasia and a post mortem examination.