Proximal interphalangeal locking compression plate for pastern arthrodesis in horses.
Authors: Hicks Rebecca B, Glass Kati G, Watkins Jeffrey P
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthrodesis Using Locking Compression Plating Pastern arthritis is a common cause of lameness in horses, and whilst proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) arthrodesis can be an effective long-term solution, evidence supporting specific surgical techniques remains patchy. Hicks, Glass and Watkins evaluated clinical outcomes in horses undergoing PIPJ fusion using a locking compression plate combined with abaxial transarticular lag screws—a fixation method that had received minimal published scrutiny despite growing adoption. Their case series documented factors including healing timelines, return to soundness, and complication rates across horses treated with this hybrid approach. The findings provide practitioners with outcome data necessary for informed discussions with owners about prognosis and recovery expectations, particularly regarding surgical cost-benefit analysis and realistic timelines for return to work. For farriers and physiotherapists involved in post-operative rehabilitation, understanding the biomechanical stability this plating technique affords will help refine management protocols and identify early signs of fixation failure.
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Practical Takeaways
- •The PIP-LCP offers a surgical option for treating PIPJ arthritis when conservative management fails, with comparable outcomes to other arthrodesis techniques
- •This technique combines plate and screw fixation, potentially providing enhanced stability for pastern joint fusion
- •Veterinary surgeons considering PIPJ arthrodesis should familiarize themselves with this method as an alternative to traditional approaches
Key Findings
- •PIP-LCP with abaxial transarticular lag screws is a viable surgical technique for PIPJ arthrodesis in horses
- •Clinical outcomes following this technique are being documented to fill a gap in the literature regarding this specific fixation method