Tibial stress fractures in racing Standardbreds: 13 cases (1989–1993)

Abstract

Objective To determine clinical signs, radiographic and scintigraphic findings, and performance outcome of racing Standardbreds with tibial stress fractures. Design Retrospective case series. Animals 13 racing Standardbreds with tibial stressfractures. Procedure Information concerning clinical signs, diagnostic evaluation, and recommendations was obtained by review of the medical records. Performance information before and after diagnosis of the fracture was collected from racing records, and follow-up information was obtained from the owners or trainers by use of a telephone questionnaire. Results Horses with tibial stress fractures were moderately lame, and diagnosis was made by nuclear scintigraphy and radiography. Fractures were more likely to occur in 2-year-old horses than in older horses. The fracture location was unique for Standardbreds;11 of 13 developed stress fractures in the mid-diaphysis of the tibia, whereas fractures in Thorough breds are usually in the proximal caudal or caudolateral cortex. Fractures occurred in young horses that had raced or were in advanced race training. All horses were treated with rest alone, and 10 of 13 horses raced after injury. The horses that raced after injury were able to return to a level of performance that was equal to or better than the level raced before injury. 8 of 10 horses established a life time-best winning time after injury. Clinical Implications Tibial stress fractures are a cause of lameness in young racing Standardbreds. Diagnosisis aided by nuclear scintigraphy. The prognosis for return to previous level of performance after a tibial stress fracture is good. ( J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996,209:634-637)