Evaluation of cartilage lesions on the medial femoral condyle as a cause of lameness in horses: 11 cases (1988-1994)

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate clinical findings and response to treatment in horses in which cartilage lesions on the medial femoral condyle were a cause of lameness.

Design: Retrospective case series.

Sample population: Medical records of 11 horses that had cartilage lesions on the medial femoral condyle detected during arthroscopy of the stifle.

Procedure: Signalment, history, lameness examination, response to intra-articular anesthesia, radiographs of the stifle, observations during diagnostic arthroscopy, and treatment were extracted from the medical record of each horse. Follow-up examinations and outcome were available for all horses.

Results: All horses in the study had lameness, but their gait improved after intra-articular injection of anesthetic. Abnormalities were not observed on radiography of the stifle. Diagnostic arthroscopy was performed on 12 affected joints in 11 horses. Cartilage was dimpled, wrinkled, and infolded, and a blunt arthroscopic probe could be inserted into the subchondral bone. In addition to focal lesions, 4 horses had generalized damage to cartilage on the medial femoral condyle. Focal cartilage lesions on the femoral condyle were debrided. In 2 horses, debridement was not performed because of extensive generalized damage to the cartilage. Six of 7 horses with focal cartilage lesions treated by debridement recovered completely and resumed previous activities.

Clinical implications: Cartilage lesions on the medial femoral condyle can cause lameness in performance horses. Diagnostic arthroscopy is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. Debridement of focal cartilage lesions may allow some horses to successfully resume performance activities.