Carpal bone fracture
Fractures of the carpal bones usually occur with repeated high speed work, hence most commonly seen in racing thoroughbreds. Horses with fracture of the carpal bones will show a sudden, usually severe lameness with a painful swelling around the knee. The horse will also show pain on flexion of the knee.
Diagnosis
X-rays are required for diagnosis and to assess treatment options. Scinitigraphy (bone scan) can be used to recognize damage to the carpal bones before a fracture actually occurs.
Treatment
In most cases the fracture must be repaired or the fractured fragments of bone removed surgically for the animal to return to soundness.