• Journal of Veterinary Clinics
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• v.36 no.5
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• pp.292-295
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• 2019

A 2-year-old, 440 kg, thoroughbred gelding showed a lameness grade of 3 out of 5, as well as swelling and heating on the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ). Periarticular new bones due to the arthritis were observed on performing radiography and ultrasonography. PIPJ arthrodesis was performed under general anesthesia. With the PIPJ open, the articular cartilage was removed by using curette, chisel, and mallet. Arthrodesis was performed with a PIP plate and two additional transarticular cortex screws inserted in lag fashion. A cast was placed over the limb distal from the proximal metatarsal bone. At 6 months after surgery, complete union of the PIPJ was confirmed by radiography, and the incision site was well closed. Based on the outcome, a PIP plate with two additional transarticular cortex screws inserted in lag fashion is recommended as a method for treating osteoarthritis of the PIPJ in horses.