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Nagy A, Dyson S. Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Computed Tomographic and Radiographic Findings in the Metacarpophalangeal Joints of 31 Warmblood Showjumpers in Full Work and Competing Regularly. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1417. [PMID: 38791635 PMCID: PMC11117305 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a limited description of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and no information on computed tomographic (CT) findings in the fetlock of non-lame, non-racing sports horses. This study aimed to document comparative CT, MRI and radiographic findings in the metacarpophalangeal joints of showjumpers in full work. Clinical and gait assessments, low-field MRI, fan-beam CT and radiographic examinations of both metacarpophalangeal joints were performed on 31 showjumpers. Images were analysed descriptively. In most limbs (53/62, 85.5%), there were CT and MRI changes consistent with densification in the sagittal ridge and/or condyles of the third metacarpal bone (McIII). Hypoattenuation (subchondral bone resorption) was seen in CT reconstructions in the metacarpal condyle dorsoproximally (n = 2) and dorsodistally (n = 1), in the sagittal groove (n = 2) and medial fovea (n = 1) of the proximal phalanx. The McIII resorptive lesions were detected on MR images but not the proximal phalanx lesions. None were identified on radiographs. In conclusion, MRI and CT abnormalities previously associated with lameness were seen in the front fetlocks of showjumpers without relevant lameness. Densification in the sagittal ridge and the metacarpal condyles likely reflects an adaptive change to exercise. Subchondral bone resorption may indicate an early stage of disease; follow-up information is needed to establish its clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Nagy
- Department and Clinic of Equine Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, Dóra Major, 2225 Üllő, Hungary
| | - Sue Dyson
- The Cottage, Church Road, Market Weston, Diss IP22 2NX, UK;
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Yocom A, Contino E, Kawcak C. Review of the Mechanism of Action and Use of Bisphosphonates in Horses. J Equine Vet Sci 2023:104503. [PMID: 37120118 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Bisphosphonates are a group of drugs that can reduce bone resorption by incorporating into the crystal structure of exposed hydroxyapatite where they are taken up by osteoclasts. Bisphosphonates have several other mechanisms of action including reducing pain and inflammation and altering macrophage function. There are two types of bisphosphonates - nitrogenous and non-nitrogenous, the latter of which is used in horses. This article provides a literature-based review of the proposed mechanisms of action and therapeutic uses of bisphosphonates including a brief review of bone response to disease. A review of the literature available in horses including safety data and current rules and regulations is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Yocom
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 300 West Drake Road, Fort Collins, CO 80523
| | - Erin Contino
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 300 West Drake Road, Fort Collins, CO 80523
| | - Christopher Kawcak
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 300 West Drake Road, Fort Collins, CO 80523.
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Adepu S, Lord M, Hugoh Z, Nyström S, Mattsson-Hulten L, Abrahamsson-Aurell K, Lützelschwab C, Skiöldebrand E. Salivary Biglycan-neo-epitope-BGN262: a novel surrogate biomarker for equine osteoarthritic sub-chondral bone sclerosis and to monitor the effect of short-term training and surface arena. OSTEOARTHRITIS AND CARTILAGE OPEN 2023; 5:100354. [PMID: 36968250 PMCID: PMC10033749 DOI: 10.1016/j.ocarto.2023.100354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective We aimed to delineate a novel soluble Biglycan Neo-epitope-BGN262 in saliva from young reference and osteoarthritic horses in conjunction with the influence of short-term training exercise, riding surface hardness, circadian rhythm, and feeding on its soluble levels. Design A custom-made inhibition ELISA was used for the quantification of BGN262 in saliva. Cohort 1: A cross-sectional study comprising reference (N = 19) and OA horses (N = 9) with radiographically classified subchondral bone sclerosis. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to evaluate the robustness of BGN262. Cohorts 2 (N = 5) & 3 (N = 7): Longitudinal studies of sampling during a short-term training exercise (sand-fibre) and a cross-over design of short-training exercise on 2 different riding arenas (sand and sand-fibre), respectively. Capillary western immunoassay was used to determine the BGN262 molecular size in a selection of saliva samples collected from cohort 1. Results Cohort 1: Salivary BGN262 levels were significantly higher in the OA group. The Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed an area under the curve of 0.8304 [0.6386 to 1.022], indicating a good separation from the reference group. Cohorts 2 & 3: Salivary BGN262 levels significantly changed during the exercise on sand and sand-fibre arena, with a trend towards higher levels for sand-fibre. The size of the BGN262 fragment determined by Capillary western assay was 18 kDa. Conclusions The data presented show saliva BGN262 levels as a novel biomarker in evaluating the influence of exercise, and interaction with riding arenas alongside assessing osteoarthritis severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Adepu
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
- Corresponding author.
| | - M. Lord
- Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Z. Hugoh
- Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - S. Nyström
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Transfusion Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - L. Mattsson-Hulten
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Transfusion Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - K. Abrahamsson-Aurell
- Hallands Djursjukhus Kungsbacka Hästklinik, Älvsåkers Byväg 20, 434 95 Kungsbacka, Sweden
| | - C. Lützelschwab
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - E. Skiöldebrand
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Ayodele BA, Hitchens PL, Wong ASM, Mackie EJ, Whitton RC. Microstructural properties of the proximal sesamoid bones of Thoroughbred racehorses in training. Equine Vet J 2020; 53:1169-1177. [PMID: 33244781 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proximal sesamoid bone fractures are common catastrophic injuries in racehorses. Understanding the response of proximal sesamoid bones to race training can inform fracture prevention strategies. OBJECTIVES To describe proximal sesamoid bone microstructure of racehorses and to investigate the associations between microstructure and racing histories. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional. METHODS Proximal sesamoid bones from 63 Thoroughbred racehorses were imaged using micro-computed tomography. Bone volume fraction (BVTV) and bone material density (BMD) of the whole bone and four regions (apical, midbody dorsal, midbody palmar and basilar) were determined. Generalised linear regression models were used to identify the associations between bone parameters and race histories of the horses. RESULTS The mean sesamoid BVTV was 0.79 ± 0.08 and BMD was 806.02 ± 24.66 mg HA/ccm. BVTV was greater in medial sesamoids compared with lateral sesamoids (0.80 ± 0.07 vs 0.79 ± 0.08; P < .001) predominantly due to differences in the apical region (medial-0.76 ± 0.08 vs lateral-0.72 ± 0.07; P < .001). BVTV in the midbody dorsal region (0.86 ± 0.06) was greater than other regions (midbody palmar-0.79 ± 0.07, basilar-0.78 ± 0.06 and apical-0.74 ± 0.08; P < .001). BVTV was greater in sesamoids with more microcracks on their articular surface (Coef. 0.005; 95% CI 0.001, 0.009; P = .01), greater extent of bone resorption on their abaxial surface (Grade 2-0.82 ± 0.05 vs Grade 1-0.80 ± 0.05 or Grade 0-0.79 ± 0.06; P = .006), in horses with a low (0.82 ± 0.07) or mid handicap rating (0.78 ± 0.08) compared with high rating (0.76 ± 0.07; P < .001), in 2- to 5-year-old horses (0.81 ± 0.07) compared with younger (0.68 ± 0.08) or older horses (0.77 ± 0.08; P < .001) and in horses that commenced their racing career at less than 4 years of age (0.79 ± 0.08 vs 0.77 ± 0.77; P < .001). BMD was greater in the midbody dorsal (828.6 ± 19.6 mg HA/ccm) compared with other regions (apical-805.8 ± 21.8, midbody palmar-804.7 ± 18.4 and basilar-785.0 ± 17.1; P < .001), in horses with a handicap rating (low-812.1 ± 20.0, mid-821.8 ± 21.3 and high-814.6 ± 19.4) compared with those with no rating (791.08 ± 24.4, P < .001), in females (806.7 ± 22.0) and geldings (812.2 ± 22.4) compared with entires (792.7 ± 26.2; P = .02) and in older horses (<2-year-old-763.7 ± 24.8 vs 2- to 5-year-old-802.7 ± 23.4, and 6- to 12-year-old-817.8 ± 20.0; P = .002). MAIN LIMITATIONS Data were cross-sectional. CONCLUSIONS Densification of the proximal sesamoid bones is associated with the commencement of racing in younger horses and the presence of bone fatigue-related pathology. Lower sesamoid BVTV was associated with longevity and better performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babatunde A Ayodele
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peta L Hitchens
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Adelene S M Wong
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Eleanor J Mackie
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - R Christopher Whitton
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Yamada ALM, Pinheiro M, Marsiglia MF, Hagen SCF, Baccarin RYA, da Silva LCLC. Ultrasound and clinical findings in the metacarpophalangeal joint assessment of show jumping horses in training. J Vet Sci 2020; 21:e21. [PMID: 32476309 PMCID: PMC7263911 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2020.21.e21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Physical exercise is known to cause significant joint changes. Thus, monitoring joint behavior of athletic horses is essential in early disorders recognition, allowing the proper management. Objectives The aims of this study were to determine the morphological patterns, physical examination characteristics and ultrasound findings of show jumping horses in training and to establish a score-based examination model for physical and ultrasound follow-ups of metacarpophalangeal joint changes in these animals. Methods A total of 52 metacarpophalangeal joints from 26 horses who were initially in the taming stage were evaluated, and the horses' athletic progression was monitored. The horses were evaluated by a physical examination and by B-mode and Doppler-mode ultrasound examinations, starting at time zero (T0), which occurred concomitantly with the beginning of training, and every 3 months thereafter for a follow-up period of 18 months. Results The standardized examination model revealed an increase in the maximum joint flexion angles and higher scores on the physical and ultrasound examinations after scoring was performed by predefined assessment tools, especially between 3 and 6 months of evaluation, which was immediately after the horses started more intense training. The lameness score and the ultrasound examination score were slightly higher at the end of the study. Conclusions The observed results were probably caused by the implementation of a training regimen and joint adaptation to physical conditioning. The joints most likely undergo a pre-osteoarthritic period due to work overload, which can manifest in a consistent or adaptive manner, as observed during this study. Thus, continuous monitoring of young athlete horses by physical and ultrasound examinations that can be scored is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Lúcia M Yamada
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508 270, Brazil.
| | - Marcelo Pinheiro
- Independant Veterinarian, Alameda do Parque 400, Jd Plaza Athene, Itu, SP 13302 225, Brazil
| | - Marília F Marsiglia
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508 270, Brazil
| | - Stefano Carlo F Hagen
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508 270, Brazil
| | - Raquel Yvonne A Baccarin
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508 270, Brazil
| | - Luís Cláudio L C da Silva
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508 270, Brazil
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Whitton RC, Ayodele BA, Hitchens PL, Mackie EJ. Subchondral bone microdamage accumulation in distal metacarpus of Thoroughbred racehorses. Equine Vet J 2018; 50:766-773. [PMID: 29660153 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microdamage accumulation leads to subchondral bone injury and/or fracture in racehorses. An understanding of this process is essential for developing strategies for injury prevention. OBJECTIVES To quantify subchondral bone microdamage in the third metacarpal bone of Thoroughbred racehorses at different stages of the training cycle. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional. METHODS Bone blocks from the palmar aspect of the medial condyles of third metacarpal bones from 46 racing Thoroughbred horses undergoing post-mortem were examined with micro computed tomography (microCT) to detect calcified microcracks, and light microscopy to quantify bulk stained microcracks. Racing and training histories were obtained for comparison with microdamage data using regression modelling. RESULTS Subchondral bone microcracks were observed in all bones with at least one method. Microdamage grade was greater in older horses, levelling-off for horses 5 years and older (quadratic term P = 0.01), and with lower bone material density in the parasagittal groove (P = 0.02). Microcrack density was higher in older horses (P = 0.004), and with higher bone volume fraction (BV/TV) in the parasagittal groove in horses in training (interaction effect, P = 0.01) and lower in horses resting from training (P = 0.02). MAIN LIMITATIONS Cross-sectional data only. Incomplete detection of microdamage due to the limits of resolution of microCT and lack of three-dimensional imaging with microscopy. Multicollinearity between variables that indicated career progression (e.g. age, number of career starts, duration of training period) was detected. CONCLUSIONS Fatigue damage in the distal metacarpal subchondral bone is common in Thoroughbred racehorses undergoing post-mortem and appears to accumulate throughout a racing career. Reduced intensity or duration of training and racing and/or increased duration of rest periods may limit microdamage accumulation. Focal subchondral bone sclerosis indicates the presence of microdamage.
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Affiliation(s)
- R C Whitton
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - B A Ayodele
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - P L Hitchens
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - E J Mackie
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Martig S, Hitchens PL, Stevenson MA, Whitton RC. Subchondral bone morphology in the metacarpus of racehorses in training changes with distance from the articular surface but not with age. J Anat 2018; 232:919-930. [PMID: 29446086 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The repetitive large loads generated during high-speed training and racing commonly cause subchondral bone injuries in the metacarpal condyles of racehorses. Adaptive bone modelling leads to focal sclerosis at the site of highest loading in the palmar aspect of the metacarpal condyles. Information on whether and how adaptive modelling of subchondral bone changes during the career of a racehorse is sparse. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to describe the changes in subchondral bone micromorphology in the area of highest loading in the palmar aspect of the metacarpal condyle in thoroughbred racehorses as a function of age and training. Bone morphology parameters derived from micro-CT images were evaluated using principal component analysis and mixed-effects linear regression models. The largest differences in micromorphology were observed in untrained horses between the age of 16 and 20 months. Age and duration of a training period had no influence on tissue mineral density, bone volume fraction or number and area of closed pores to a depth of 5.1 mm from the articular surface in 2- to 4-year-old racehorses in training. Horses with subchondral bone injuries had more pores in cross-section compared with horses without subchondral bone injuries. Differences in bone volume fraction were due to the volume of less mineralised bone. Tissue mineral density increased and bone volume fraction decreased with increasing distance from the articular surface up to 5.1 mm from the articular surface. Further research is required to elucidate the biomechanical and pathophysiological consequences of these gradients of micromorphological parameters in the subchondral bone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Martig
- Equine Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Vic., Australia
| | - Peta L Hitchens
- Equine Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Vic., Australia
| | - Mark A Stevenson
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - R Chris Whitton
- Equine Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Vic., Australia
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Hitchens PL, Pivonka P, Malekipour F, Whitton RC. Mathematical modelling of bone adaptation of the metacarpal subchondral bone in racehorses. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2018; 17:877-890. [PMID: 29344755 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-017-0998-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
In Thoroughbred racehorses, fractures of the distal limb are commonly catastrophic. Most of these fractures occur due to the accumulation of fatigue damage from repetitive loading, as evidenced by microdamage at the predilection sites for fracture. Adaptation of the bone in response to training loads is important for fatigue resistance. In order to better understand the mechanism of subchondral bone adaptation to its loading environment, we utilised a square root function defining the relationship between bone volume fraction [Formula: see text] and specific surface [Formula: see text] of the subchondral bone of the lateral condyles of the third metacarpal bone (MCIII) of the racehorse, and using this equation, developed a mathematical model of subchondral bone that adapts to loading conditions observed in vivo. The model is expressed as an ordinary differential equation incorporating a formation rate that is dependent on strain energy density. The loading conditions applied to a selected subchondral region, i.e. volume of interest, were estimated based on joint contact forces sustained by racehorses in training. For each of the initial conditions of [Formula: see text] we found no difference between subsequent homoeostatic [Formula: see text] at any given loading condition, but the time to reach equilibrium differed by initial [Formula: see text] and loading condition. We found that the observed values for [Formula: see text] from the mathematical model output were a good approximation to the existing data for racehorses in training or at rest. This model provides the basis for understanding the effect of changes to training strategies that may reduce the risk of racehorse injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peta L Hitchens
- Equine Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, 3030, Australia.
| | - Peter Pivonka
- School of Chemistry, Physics and Mechanical Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Fatemeh Malekipour
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - R Chris Whitton
- Equine Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, 3030, Australia
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Allen SE, Rosanowski SM, Stirk AJ, Verheyen KLP. Description of veterinary events and risk factors for fatality in National Hunt flat racing Thoroughbreds in Great Britain (2000-2013). Equine Vet J 2017; 49:700-705. [PMID: 28235142 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No large-scale studies have described veterinary events occurring in National Hunt (NH) flat racing or investigated risk factors for fatality in this race type. OBJECTIVES To describe injuries and conditions requiring veterinary attendance on race day and to determine risk factors for racehorse fatality in NH flat racing in Great Britain. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study (2000-2013). METHODS Information from all NH flat races held over the study period, including horse, race and veterinary event report details, was combined. Veterinary events were described by type and anatomical structure(s) affected. Incidence per 1000 starts were calculated for all veterinary events and by event group, and stratified by certain horse- and race-level variables. Risk factors for fatality were determined using multivariable logistic regression modelling. RESULTS Over the 14-year study period, 544 veterinary events were recorded, providing an overall incidence of 13.0 events per 1000 starts. The most common events were bone injuries (23.5%) and tendon or ligament injuries (16.4%). A fatal outcome was recorded for 117 horses (21.5% of all events), resulting in an incidence of 2.9 deaths per 1000 starts. Odds of fatality were 4.33 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.59-11.82; P = 0.02) times higher in races restricted to conditional jockeys compared to those that were not. Horses starting in their first race experienced 1.44 (95% CI 1.00-2.08; P = 0.05) times the odds of death compared to those that had raced before. MAIN LIMITATIONS Classification of veterinary events frequently relied upon presumptive diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a benchmark for the ongoing surveillance of veterinary events in NH flat racing. These results support the phasing out of NH flat races restricted to conditional jockeys and highlight the need for further work to establish why NH flat racing Thoroughbreds competing in their first race are at increased risk for death.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Allen
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Production and Population Health, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - S M Rosanowski
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Production and Population Health, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - A J Stirk
- British Horseracing Authority, London, UK
| | - K L P Verheyen
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Production and Population Health, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
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10
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te Moller NC, van Weeren PR. How exercise influences equine joint homeostasis. Vet J 2017; 222:60-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Loughridge AB, Hess AM, Parkin TD, Kawcak CE. Qualitative assessment of bone density at the distal articulating surface of the third metacarpal in Thoroughbred racehorses with and without condylar fracture. Equine Vet J 2016; 49:172-177. [DOI: 10.1111/evj.12544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. B. Loughridge
- Orthopaedic Research Center Department of Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Colorado State University Fort Collins USA
| | - A. M. Hess
- Department of Statistics College of Natural Sciences Colorado State University Fort Collins USA
| | - T. D. Parkin
- Weipers Equine Centre School of Veterinary Medicine College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences University of Glasgow UK
| | - C. E. Kawcak
- Orthopaedic Research Center Department of Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Colorado State University Fort Collins USA
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12
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Martig S, Chen W, Lee PVS, Whitton RC. Bone fatigue and its implications for injuries in racehorses. Equine Vet J 2014; 46:408-15. [DOI: 10.1111/evj.12241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 01/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Martig
- Faculty of Veterinary Science; The University of Melbourne; Werribee Victoria Australia
| | - W. Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering; The University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - P. V. S. Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering; The University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - R. C. Whitton
- Faculty of Veterinary Science; The University of Melbourne; Werribee Victoria Australia
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13
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Walker WT, Kawcak CE, Hill AE. Medial femoral condyle morphometrics and subchondral bone density patterns in Thoroughbred racehorses. Am J Vet Res 2013; 74:691-9. [DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.74.5.691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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14
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Ratified Australian Veterinary Association policies January/February 2012. Aust Vet J 2012; 90:107-14. [PMID: 22443323 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2012.00924.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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15
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Knight PK, Thomson PC. Age at first start and racing career of a cohort of Australian Standardbred horses. Aust Vet J 2011; 89:325-30. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2011.00816.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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