Follow-up on premature and twin foals with incomplete ossification of tarsal and carpal bones: 27 cases (1996-2005).

Abstract

Objective – To evaluate the outcome for foals with incomplete ossification of the carpal and/or tarsal bones and determine if the long term outcome can be predicted out of radiographic evaluation and clinical findings at time of admission. Design – Retrospective study Animals – 4 twin foals and 23 premature foals Procedure – Date of birth and discharge, gestational length, age of exam, signalment (breed and gender), reason admission, birth weight, conformational deformities of the legs, date radiographs taken and outcome radiographs, clinical diagnose and treatment were obtained from medical records. A skeletal ossification index was used to classify the radiographic lesions. Follow-up information was obtained via telephone conversations with owners.

Results – Because of the small number of foals no objective results have been found. Foals with incomplete ossification of cuboidal bones have a risk of developing type-I or type-II lesions of the tarsus. The foals with type II lesions have a guarded prognosis for athletic soundness.