Equine Orthopaedics and Rheumatology Q&A 13

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The radiograph shows the left hind fetlock of a yearling Thoroughbred filly presented for left hindlimb lameness. There was no joint distension but the lameness was relieved by intra-articular analgesia of the metatarsophalangeal joint.

Question	Answer		Article
What abnormalities are demonstrated?	There is a narrow, short articular defect in the lateral condyle of the metatarsal bone. There is also a less obvious area of reduced radiopacity in the medial condyle. The sagittal ridge is remodelled and the proximal articular surface of the first phalanx is irregular. The diagnosis is osteoarthritis, associated with bone remodelling of the distal articular surface of the third metatarsal bone.		Link to Article
What, if any, treatment would you recommend to return this animal to soundness?	Intra-articular medication with sodium hyaluronate might be helpful, although the prognosis is poor.		Link to Article