Effect of a collateral ligament sparing surgical approach on mechanical properties of equine proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis constructs.
Authors: Bras Jose J, Lillich James D, Beard Warren L, Anderson David E, Armbrust Laura J, Frink Elizabeth, Lease Kevin
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary Proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) arthrodesis is a common salvage procedure for horses with severe joint disease, but the surgical approach chosen may influence long-term construct stability and function. Bras and colleagues compared two surgical techniques—a collateral ligament-sparing approach versus a conventional open approach—by creating arthrodesis constructs in equine cadaver limbs and testing their mechanical properties under load, whilst also measuring how much articular cartilage was removed using transarticular drilling with various drill bit sizes. The collateral ligament-sparing technique produced arthrodesis constructs with superior mechanical properties, maintaining greater structural integrity and load-bearing capacity compared to the open approach, with the benefit of preserving critical soft tissue support around the joint. Additionally, the researchers quantified articular cartilage removal during transarticular drilling, demonstrating that drill bit diameter directly influences the extent of cartilage damage, which has implications for surgical planning and long-term joint stability. These findings suggest that farriers and veterinary surgeons should prioritise collateral ligament preservation during PIPJ arthrodesis to optimise biomechanical outcomes and potentially reduce the risk of construct failure or adjacent joint complications in the postoperative period.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Collateral ligament sparing approaches may improve long-term stability and functional outcomes for PIPJ arthrodesis by preserving joint support structures
- •Drill bit diameter selection during transarticular fixation should be carefully considered to minimize unnecessary cartilage removal while achieving adequate fusion
- •Surgical approach choice has measurable biomechanical consequences that may impact clinical success rates in PIPJ arthrodesis cases
Key Findings
- •Collateral ligament sparing surgical approach preserved ligamentous support structures compared to open surgical approach
- •Transarticular drilling with different diameter drill bits removed variable percentages of articular cartilage surface
- •Surgical technique choice affects mechanical properties and structural integrity of PIPJ arthrodesis constructs