P3 Fractures in Horses

These flashcards cover key concepts related to P3 fractures in horses, including causes, clinical signs, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options.

What are P3 fractures in horses?

Fractures of the third phalanx (pedal bone) that can cause lameness.

What are common causes of P3 and navicular fractures?

Acute onset trauma, developmental or osteochondral fragments, and repetitive wear and tear.

What clinical signs indicate a navicular or P3 fracture?

Lameness, heat in the hoof, swelling, and a positive response to hoof testers.

What diagnostic methods can be used for P3 fractures?

Radiography, MRI, CT, gamma scintigraphy, and nerve/joint blocks.

What is the importance of hoof examination in diagnosing P3 fractures?

Both bones are enclosed within the hoof capsule, making fractures difficult to identify.

What type of fractures can occur in P3?

Small fragments, large complete fractures, stable/unstable, articular/non-articular.

What does 'articular fragment' refer to in the context of P3 fractures?

Fragments that involve the joint surface, affecting the distal interphalangeal joint.

What is the significance of digital pulses in diagnosing P3 fractures?

Bounding digital pulses indicate acute significant lameness associated with fractures.

What is a conservative treatment option for P3 fractures?

Box rest only.

What is 'internal fixation' in terms of treating fractures?

A surgical procedure to stabilize fracture fragments using screws or plates.

What does 'comminuted fracture' mean?

A fracture where the bone is shattered into multiple pieces.

What type of imaging helps evaluate fractures within the hoof structure?

Radiographs or X-rays.

What is the role of hoof testers in diagnosing fractures?

To identify the site of pain in the hoof.

What does MRI stand for?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

What are the components of a standard foot radiographic series?

Lateromedial, dorsopalmar, and two oblique views centered on the pedal and navicular bones.

What is the 'extensor process' in relation to P3?

A specific location on the P3 bone that can be involved in fractures.

What clinical signs are associated with small extra-articular fragments?

Low grade lameness with minimal localizing signs.

Why might fractures be difficult to see on initial radiographs?

Fractures may not be visible until bone resorption occurs (7-10 days post-injury).

What type of fracture is described as involving the palmar surface affecting the deep digital flexor tendon?

Complete transverse fracture.

What is a 'veterinary risk factor' for P3 fractures?

Factors that increase the likelihood of fracture occurrence, such as age or activity level.

What is 'collimation' in radiographic technique?

Adjusting the X-ray beam to focus on a particular area and reduce scatter.

Define 'navicular bone'.

A small bone located behind the coffin bone (P3) in the horse's hoof.

What are the two main categories of P3 fractures based on stability?

Stable and unstable fractures.

How is a hoof capsule relevant to identifying fractures?

It protects the bones inside, making physical examination for fractures more challenging.

What is a 'flexor navicular' view in radiography?

An oblique view of the navicular bone to assess its condition.

What is the function of the distal interphalangeal joint?

It allows movement between P2 (middle phalanx) and P3 (pedal bone).

What does 'Dorsoproximal Palmarodistal' view show in radiography?

An angled view to visualize the relationship between the navicular and pedal bones.

How can acute and severe lameness manifest in P3 fractures?

Severe lameness with pronounced local signs such as heat and bounding pulses.

What is the key focus when creating a treatment plan for fractures?

Assessing the type and stability of the fracture to determine the appropriate intervention.

Why is it essential to assess both forelimbs in radiography for lameness?

To identify any bilateral conditions or compensatory issues that may affect the soundness.

What is meant by 'chronic fractures needing additional tests'?

Fractures that have not healed correctly and may require further examination to evaluate stability.

What procedural step is crucial for accurate hoof radiography?

Ensuring the limb is straight to avoid misrepresentation of hoof balance.