Pastern joint arthrodesis using two paraaxial and one axial crossed lag screws: a case report

Abstract

Arthrodesis was achieved in two foals through the placement of three 4.5 mm cortical lag screws. Two screws were placed in a standard transarticular fashion from the dorsal aspect of P1 (glide hole) to the palmar aspect of P2 (thread hole). A third transarticular lag screw was placed from the dorsal aspect of P2 (glide hole) to the palmar aspect of P1 (thread hole). Both foals were comfortable and considered suitable for light work. Crossed transarticular lag screw fixation of P1 and P2 in cases of PIPJ arthrodesis in foals is a simple and useful method offering good stability for fusion and future athletic soundness.

Keywords

• foal
• joint fusion
• immaturity
• osteochondrosis
• osteosynthesis