Vascularity evaluation of the equine tarsocrural and proximal intertarsal joint septum, and comparative analysis of two arthroscopic transection techniques.

Objective: To evaluate vascularity of the synovial membrane covered septum (SMS) separating the tarsocrural (TC) and proximal intertarsal (PIT) joints (Part 1) and compare two methods of transection, electrosurgical or Ferris Smith rongeur (FS rongeur) (Part 2).

Study Design: Experimental study.

Sample Population: Part 1, 10 SMS (n = 5 horses).

Micro-computed tomography reveals high-density mineralised protrusions and microstructural lesions in equine stifle joint articular cartilage.

Background: Stifle osteoarthritis (OA) lesions are most common in the medial femorotibial (MFT) compartment. Their characterisation and mapping will inform equine veterinarians towards an accurate diagnosis of OA.

Objectives: Investigate and map micro-CT (μCT) changes in the hyaline articular cartilage (HAC) in the medial femoral condyle (MFC) and medial tibial plateau (MTP).

Feasibility of a disposable canister-free negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) device for treating open wounds in horses.

Background: Wounds are among the most common medical conditions affecting horses and have a major economic impact on the horse industry. Wound healing in horses is distinct to that documented in other species, and often results in delayed healing and extensive scarring, with compromised functional and aesthetic outcomes. To date, there is no conventional method objectively proven to accelerate healing or to successfully prevent complications associated with second intention healing.

Use of next generation sequencing to investigate the microbiota of experimentally induced wounds and the effect of bandaging in horses.

Objectives: To use next generation sequencing to characterize the microbiota of horses during healing of skin wounds in two anatomical locations (body and limb) known to present different healing patterns; and to investigate the impact of bandaging on bacterial communities of skin wounds located on the limbs of horses.

Methods: Full-thickness skin wounds were created on the distal extremity of both thoracic limbs and on one lateral mid-thoracic wall of four healthy horses. Limb wounds were randomly assigned to bandaging or not.

Choosing the Best Approach to Wound Management and Closure.

This article aims to help the practitioner by providing the tools to decide which type of closure or healing is best in a given situation. An overview of the main criteria and the different approaches to wound closure is presented. Each wound must be considered as a unique problem that requires a clinician to take into account all of its characteristics and limits to determine the best management approach.