A SPLINTING NUISANCE – WHEN A SPLINT ISN’T JUST A SPLINT
When is a splint more than a splint? This was the question Paula found herself asking when her horse, Charlie, developed a lump on the inside of his lower leg consistent with a leg splint. However, when the lameness and pain on palpation persisted for several weeks, it became clear that something more serious could be going on.
Investigations
Charlotte, one of our vets, recommended taking X-rays using our ambulatory digital X-ray system at Paula’s yard. The cause of Charlie’s ongoing discomfort was immediately apparent: a section of bone had fractured away from the splint (Image 2, circled). This type of injury is typically caused by trauma, such as a kick from another horse in the field.
Surgical removal of the fractured bone fragment was recommended. Before surgery, an MRI scan was performed to assess any associated soft tissue damage and to help plan the procedure. The MRI revealed that the splint had extended into the suspensory ligament (Image 3), meaning this area would also need surgical treatment.
Surgery
Charlie underwent general anaesthesia, where Guy, one of our specialist surgeons, removed the fractured bone fragment and carefully debrided the portion of the splint that was impinging on the suspensory ligament.
After surgery, Charlie’s leg was bandaged and he began a carefully managed three-month rehabilitation programme. A follow-up MRI confirmed there was no longer any impingement on the suspensory ligament and that the inflammation had completely resolved.
Back to enjoying life!
We’re delighted to say that Charlie has now returned to competition and is enjoying getting out and about again with Paula.
If your horse has a splint that remains painful or is associated with ongoing lameness, don’t assume it’s ‘just a splint’. Our team has access to advanced diagnostic imaging and specialist surgical expertise to investigate these cases thoroughly and help your horse return to full health.
A huge thank you to Paula for allowing us to share Charlie’s story.