Influence of age and sex on bone development and athletic career longevity of Thoroughbred racehorses in Brazil - preliminary study / Influência do gênero e da idade no estágio de desenvolvimento ósseo e longevidade atlética de equinos da Raça Puro Sangue Inglês de corridas no Brasil - estudo preliminar

The impact of high-speed exercise on the musculoskeletal system of young racehorses has been extensively discussed because of concerns regarding animal health and welfare. This study investigated the correlation between age, degree of ossification of the distal radial epiphysis, sex, and career longevity of Thoroughbred racehorses in Brazil from 2012 to 2015. We performed a retrospective evaluation of 286 dorsopalmar radiographs of the left radiocarpal region of young horses and their racing performance. Distal radial epiphyseal closure was classified into three degrees: A, B, or C. Performance data included the number of races raced, athletic career length, and the number of races per month. The variables were subjected to regression analysis. At the time of radiographic examination, male horses were significantly older than females, and horses with epiphyseal closure degrees differed with age. Age at first race was 33.08±3.81 months, the average of races raced was 18.32±15.14 races, athletic career duration was 20.37±13.82 months, and the number of races raced per month was 0.93±0.46 races. Age influenced (P>0.001) the distal radial epiphyseal closure on racehorses, but sex did not (P=0.218 for males and P=0.275 for females). An inverse association was observed between age at the first race, the number of races raced per month, and athletic career duration. The frequency of race and the age at the first race influenced athletic career duration.

O impacto do exercício de alta velocidade no sistema musculoesquelético de cavalos de corrida jovens tem sido amplamente discutido devido a preocupações com a saúde e o bem-estar animal. Este estudo investigou a correlação entre idade, grau de ossificação da epífise radial distal, sexo e longevidade da carreira de cavalos Puro Sangue Inglês de corrida no Brasil de 2012 a 2015. Realizamos uma avaliação retrospectiva de 286 radiografias dorsopalmar da região radiocarpica esquerda de cavalos jovens e seu desempenho de corrida. O fechamento epifisário radial distal foi classificado em três graus decrescentes: A, B ou C. Os dados de desempenho incluíram o número de corridas disputadas, duração da carreira atlética e o número de corridas por mês. As variáveis foram submetidas à análise de regressão. No momento do exame radiográfico, os cavalos machos eram significativamente mais velhos que as fêmeas, e os cavalos com diferentes graus de fechamento epifisário diferiram com a idade. A idade na primeira corrida foi de 33,08±3,81 meses, a média de corridas disputadas foi de 18,32±15,14 corridas, a duração da carreira atlética foi de 20,37±13,82 meses e o número de corridas realizadas por mês foi de 0,93±0,46 corridas. A idade influenciou (P>0,001) o fechamento da epífise radial distal em cavalos de corrida, mas o sexo não (P=0,218 para machos e P=0,275 para fêmeas). Uma associação inversa foi observada entre a idade na primeira corrida, o número de corridas disputadas por mês e a duração da carreira atlética. A frequência de corrida e a idade na primeira corrida influenciaram a duração da carreira atlética.

Permanent tracheostomy in a horse: a case report / Traqueostomia permanente em equino: relato de caso

Problems related to the locomotor and gastrointestinal systems correspond to the highest percentage of clinical cases. However, diseases related to the respiratory system can result in low animal performance or even the animal's removal from athletic life. This paper aims to report a case of permanent tracheotomy in a horse. The animal was treated at the Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia Veterinary Hospital - HOVET, with respiratory noise and dyspnea claims. In the anamnesis, the owner reported that the animal had been presenting respiratory difficulty for 20 days. On physical examination, respiratory noise and dyspnea were noted. Endoscopy was performed, from which a marked decrease in the arytenoid cartilage movement on the right and left sides was noted. It was possible to diagnose a stage IV case of bilateral laryngeal hemiplegia, combining clinical signs with endoscopy findings. Thus, the surgical treatment of permanent tracheostomy was chosen. After surgery, drug therapy using antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs was performed. In addition, a nº 6 metal tracheostomy cannula was inserted. After 36 days of hospitalization, the animal was discharged with regression of clinical signs.(AU)

Problemas relacionados aos sistemas locomotor e gastrointestinal correspondem ao maior percentual de casos clíni-cos. No entanto, doenças relacionadas ao sistema respiratório podem resultar em baixo desempenho do animal ou mesmo na retirada do animal da vida atlética. Este trabalho tem como objetivo relatar um caso de traqueotomia permanente em um cavalo. O animal foi atendido no Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia - HOVET, com queixas de ruído respiratório e dispneia. Na anamnese, o proprietário relatou que o animal apresentava dificuldade respiratória há 20 dias. Ao exame físico, notou-se ruído respiratório e dispneia. Foi realizada endoscopia, a partir da qual foi notada diminuição acentuada do movimento da cartilagem aritenoide nos lados direito e esquerdo. Foi possível diagnosticar um caso em estágio IV de hemiplegia laríngea bila-teral, combinando os sinais clínicos com os achados endoscópicos. Assim, optou-se pelo tratamento cirúrgico da traqueostomia definitiva. Após a cirurgia, foi realizada terapia medicamentosa com antibióticos e anti-inflamatórios. Além disso, uma cânula de traqueostomia de metal nº 6 foi inserida. Após 36 dias de internação, o animal recebeu alta com regressão dos sinais clínicos.(AU)

Bacterial pneumonia in horses associated with Escherichia coli infection: report of five cases / [Pneumonia bacteriana em equinos associada à infecção por Escherichia coli: relato de cinco casos]

Respiratory diseases have a major impact on sport horses and are often cited as the second most common reason for loss of training days and significant veterinary costs. Adult horses most commonly develop pneumonia when bacteria aspirated from the environment, nose, or oropharynx reach the lower airways and overwhelm the pulmonary defense mechanisms. This article report five cases of bacterial pneumonia in horses associated with infection by Eschericia coli. Five Quarter horses, three males and two females, with ages varying from 5 to 12 years, were examined for diagnosis of respiratory disease characterized by apathy, cough and lack of appetite. Auscultation of the thorax revealed increased harsh breath sounds dorsally, crackles, wheezes, and dullness of respiratory sounds ventrally. Manipulation of the trachea and larynx induced cough. Culture results were positive for Escherichia coli. The therapeutic protocol consisted of anti-inflammatory, antibiotic therapy, and supportive care. Flunixin meglumine was administered intravenously at 24-hour intervals over eight days. Ceftiofur sodium was prescribed intramuscularly, q.d., for 15 days. Horses were clinically monitored daily until complete remission of clinical signs. None of the animals relapsed, and all returned to routine athletic activities.

As doenças respiratórias têm um grande impacto nos cavalos de esporte e são frequentemente citadas como o segundo motivo mais comum para a perda de dias de treinamento e custos veterinários significativos. Os cavalos adultos desenvolvem mais comumente pneumonia quando bactérias aspiradas do ambiente, do nariz ou da orofaringe alcançarem as vias aéreas inferiores e sobrecarregam os mecanismos de defesa pulmonar. Este artigo tem como objetivo relatar cinco casos de pneumonia bacteriana em cavalos, associados à infecção por Eschericia coli. Cinco cavalos da raça Quarto de Milha, três machos e duas fêmeas, com idades variando de cinco a 12 anos, foram examinados para diagnóstico de doença respiratória caracterizada por apatia, tosse e falta de apetite. A auscultação do tórax revelou aumento dos sons respiratórios ásperos dorsalmente, crepitação, sibilos e abafamento dos sons respiratórios ventralmente. Manipulação da traqueia induziu tosse. Os resultados da cultura foram positivos para Escherichia coli. O protocolo terapêutico consistiu em anti-inflamatório, antibioticoterapia e cuidados de suporte. Flunixina meglumina, na dose de 1mg/kg, foi administrada, por via intravenosa, em intervalos de 24 horas ao longo de oito dias, enquanto ceftiofur sódico, na dose de 2,2mg/kg, por via intramuscular, q.d., foi administrado durante 15 dias. Os cavalos foram monitorados clinicamente, todos os dias, até a remissão completa dos sinais clínicos. Nenhum dos animais apresentou recidiva, e todos retornaram às atividades atléticas de rotina.

Effect of intrabronchial platelet rich plasma on the exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage endoscopic score in thoroughbred racehorses using furosemide: a preliminary study / [Efeito da instilação intrabronquial de plasma rico em plaquetas no escore endoscópico da hemorragia pulmonar induzida por exercício em cavalos Puro-Sangue Inglês de corrida e usuários de furosemida: um estudo preliminar]

The high prevalence of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) in athletic horses constitutes to be a challenge to the racing industry and a source of major concern to animal welfare. Both experimental and clinical evidence indicate that the use of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a promising effector of repair in a variety of pulmonary conditions. The present study evaluated the effect of intrabronchial instillation of PRP on EIPH endoscopic scores from 37 Thoroughbred racehorses. Inclusion criteria were for animals to be EIPH-positive in, at least, two consecutive post-exercise endoscopic exams and to receive 250mg of furosemide IV four hours before racing. Animals were randomly assigned into 3 groups: placebo, control, and PRP instillation. All 37 Thoroughbred racehorses included had EIPH endoscopic scores pre- and post- treatment compared by statistical analysis. The bleeding score from the group receiving PRP was significantly lower than in the control and placebo groups. No adverse effects were observed in any animal during or after the experiment. It was possible to conclude that the intrabronchial instillation of autologous PRP was effective in reducing EIPH scores in racehorses receiving furosemide and that this bioproduct can be considered as a promising coadjuvant in controlling EIPH in athletic horses.(AU)

A alta prevalência de hemorragia pulmonar induzida por exercício (HPIE) em cavalos atletas é um desafio de longa data para a indústria de corridas, além de figurar como grande preocupação sobre o bem-estar animal. As evidências experimentais e clínicas indicam que o uso do plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) de fonte autógena é promissor na terapêutica de diversas lesões pulmonares. O presente estudo objetivou avaliar as mudanças após corrida no escore endoscópico de HPIE de 37 cavalos Puro-Sangue Inglês que receberam instilação intrabronquial de PRP autólogo. Os animais selecionados eram HPIE-positivos em, ao menos, dois exames endoscópicos consecutivos e recebiam 250mg de furosemida IV administrado quatro horas antes de cada corrida. Na comparação dos escores endoscópicos pré e pós-tratamento, verificou-se que o escore de HPIE do grupo tratado com PRP foi significantemente menor que o dos grupos controle e placebo. Nenhum efeito adverso foi observado nos animais durante ou após o experimento. Concluiu-se que a instilação intrabronquial de PRP autólogo foi efetiva na redução do escore de HPIE de cavalos de corrida usuários de furosemida e que este bioproduto pode ser considerado uma alternativa promissora no controle de HPIE em cavalos atletas.(AU)

Hemitireoidectomia por carcinoma em equino / Equine carcinoma hemithyroidectomy

Background: In horses, the thyroid gland is located slightly caudal to the larynx and dorsolaterally between the third and sixth tracheal ring, adjacent to the thyroid, there are four small glands called parathyroid glands. In the clinical routine of horses, thyropathies are difficult to be diagnosed, as they have a silent evolution. Thyroid neoplasia is the most common finding in horses, usually unilateral and normally present in older animals. The present study reports a case of equine thyroid carcinoma and its systemic clinical effects, which was successfully treated by means of hemitieroidectomy. Case: A 12-year-old male mixed breed horse weighing 436 kg, was admitted to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of the FZEA/USP with the main complaint of volume increase in the right ventrolateral region of the neck, difficulty in swallowing, significant weight loss and weakness of the pelvic limbs. On inspection, there was an increase in volume in the topographic region of the thyroid gland and on palpation, there was a firm mass, with delimited edges, with a smooth, mobile surface, without increasing the temperature and without pain. The animal was sent for ultrasound examination, which revealed a delimited mass, with an apparent capsule around it, differentiated and disorganized cellularity with small hypoechoic points of liquid inside the structure, with no apparent vascularization inside the mass. These findings, associated with the anatomical location of the mass, were consistent with thyroid tissue. The clinical signs commonly observed in thyroid neoformations are respiratory stridor, decreased performance, difficulty in swallowing and suffocation. As there was a compromised diet and weight gain, as well as athletic performance, he chose to have a hemithyroidectomy. After surgery, histopathology of the tissue was performed and thyroid carcinoma was diagnosed. Postoperatively, the animal was medicated with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and anti-tetanus serum, after 10 days the stitches were removed and the animal was discharged. Discussion: Neoplasia is the most frequent cause of progressive thyroid growth and in case of suspicion of thyroid disorders, thin needle aspiration (FNAB) is recommended and, later, histopathological examination, which is considered the gold standard for diagnosis pathologies of the thyroid gland. In the present case, no FNAB or preoperative histopathological examination was performed due to the time required to obtain the result, associated with difficulty in swallowing and significant weight loss, which required immediate removal of the mass. Considering that the ultrasound examination revealed the absence of noble structures or important vascularization very close to or adhered to the mass, its removal prior to the histopathological examination was indicated. As there was compromised feeding and weight gain, he opted for hemithyroidectomy, the recommended treatment for unilateral tumors in horses. When performing a hemithyroidectomy, it should be remembered that the parathyroid glands accompany the thyroid and are located in its posterior portion, in the pre tracheal region, with its variable final position. With this variation in topography, the identification of parathyroid glands becomes challenging and, consequently, after thyroidectomy, a portion of parathyroid glands stops operating, and this fact is marked clinically by hypocalcemia and its consequences. In this case described, in which the animal had a tumor in thyroid tissue, possibly the parathyroid functions were also altered, which probably reflected in the lameness in the pelvic limbs. It is concluded that partial hemithyroidectomy in horses is an easy procedure to perform and has favorable results in relation to prognosis and quality of life.

Exercise training session-induced metabolic acidosis in barrel racing horses / Acidose metabólica induzida por sessão de treinamento em equinos de tambor

In horses, acid-base balance disorders are common after intense exercise, with metabolic acidosis being the most common after high intensity and short duration exercise. Understanding the processes that cause them is fundamental for procedures, which aimed to improve the physical fitness of horses for athletic purposes, with fewer changes in homeostasis. The present study assessed the effect of barrel racing on acid base balance in Quarter Horse, at the following times: T0 - immediately before training; T1 - immediately after the end of the second course; T2 - one hour after the end of the second course. In T1, there was decrease (P<0.05) in the pH, HCO3 -, pCO2, cBase, tCO2 and strong ion difference concentrations, while the plasma lactate and anion gap increased (P<0.05). It was concluded that barrel racing training caused transient metabolic acidosis in the horses, and hyperlactatemia was still present after an hour of rest.(AU)

As desordens no equilíbrio ácido base são comuns em equinos após exercício intenso. Exercícios de alta intensidade e curta duração ocasionam frequentemente acidose metabólica. Entender as alterações neste equilíbrio é essencial para instituir programas de treinamentos que visam melhorar o condicionamento físico dos equinos atletas, minimizando alterações na homeostasia. O estudo avaliou o efeito do treinamento de três tambores sobre o equilíbrio ácido base em equinos. A avaliação foi realizada nos seguintes tempos: T0 - imediatamente antes do início do treinamento; T1 - imediatamente após o fim do segundo percurso de treinamento; T2 - uma hora após o fim do segundo percurso. Em T1, ocorreu diminuição (P<0,05) nos valores do pH, HCO3 -, pCO2, cBase, tCO2 e diferença de íons fortes, enquanto o lactato e o ânion gap aumentaram (P<0,05). Conclui-se que o treinamento de três tambores causou acidose metabólica passageira nos equinos, sendo que a hiperlactatemia ainda permaneceu manifestada após uma hora de descanso.(AU)

Lombalgia em equinos de vaquejada: achados clínicos, ultrasonográficos e resultados terapêuticos de 25 casos / Back pain in vaquejada horses: clinical, ultrasound findings and therapeutic outcome in 25 cases

25 equinos da raça Quarto de Milha, em atividade esportiva na modalidade de vaquejada no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil, ambos os sexos, com idade média de 7,91 + 3,26 anos, foram examinados na propriedade de origem ou centro de treinamento para diagnóstico de baixo desempenho associado a dor lombar. O exame clínico da região toracolombar foi realizado por meio da inspeção, palpação, testes de mobilização (ventro e dorsoflexão toracolombar; flexão lateral e rotação toracolombar; flexão lateral e rotação cervical e torácica) além de análise do animal em movimento. As principais alterações encontradas foram miosite epaxial, desmite ligamento supra-espinhoso, além de atrofia do músculo multifidus. O tratamento clínico consistiu na administração de injeções periespinhais de triancinolona numa dose total de 200mg, além de exercício controlado. Após o tratamento, todos os animais retornaram a desempenhar suas atividades atlética em nível de desempenho superior ou igual ao demonstrado antes do diagnóstico e tratamento da lombalgia.

Twenty five horses of the Quarter horse breed, in sporting activity in the vaquejada modality in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, 15 males and 10 females, with an average age of 7.91 + 3.26 years, were examined in the property of origin or training center for low performance diagnosis associated with low back pain. The clinical examination of the thoracolumbar region was performed through inspection, palpation, ultrasonography, mobilization tests (ventral and thoracolumbar dorsoflexion; lateral flexion and thoracolumbar rotation; lateral flexion and cervical and thoracic rotation) in addition to analysis of the animal in motion. The main changes found were epaxial myositis, supraspinatus desmite, as well as atrophy of the multifidus muscle. Clinical treatment consisted of administering perispinal injections of triamcinolone Acetonide in a total dose of 200mg, in addition to controlled exercise. After treatment, all animals returned to performing their athletic activities at a performance level greater than or equal to that demonstrated before the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain.(AU)

Lombalgia em equinos de vaquejada: achados clínicos, ultrasonográficos e resultados terapêuticos de 25 casos / Back pain in vaquejada horses: clinical, ultrasound findings and therapeutic outcome in 25 cases

25 equinos da raça Quarto de Milha, em atividade esportiva na modalidade de vaquejada no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil, ambos os sexos, com idade média de 7,91 + 3,26 anos, foram examinados na propriedade de origem ou centro de treinamento para diagnóstico de baixo desempenho associado a dor lombar. O exame clínico da região toracolombar foi realizado por meio da inspeção, palpação, testes de mobilização (ventro e dorsoflexão toracolombar; flexão lateral e rotação toracolombar; flexão lateral e rotação cervical e torácica) além de análise do animal em movimento. As principais alterações encontradas foram miosite epaxial, desmite ligamento supra-espinhoso, além de atrofia do músculo multifidus. O tratamento clínico consistiu na administração de injeções periespinhais de triancinolona numa dose total de 200mg, além de exercício controlado. Após o tratamento, todos os animais retornaram a desempenhar suas atividades atlética em nível de desempenho superior ou igual ao demonstrado antes do diagnóstico e tratamento da lombalgia.

Twenty five horses of the Quarter horse breed, in sporting activity in the vaquejada modality in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, 15 males and 10 females, with an average age of 7.91 + 3.26 years, were examined in the property of origin or training center for low performance diagnosis associated with low back pain. The clinical examination of the thoracolumbar region was performed through inspection, palpation, ultrasonography, mobilization tests (ventral and thoracolumbar dorsoflexion; lateral flexion and thoracolumbar rotation; lateral flexion and cervical and thoracic rotation) in addition to analysis of the animal in motion. The main changes found were epaxial myositis, supraspinatus desmite, as well as atrophy of the multifidus muscle. Clinical treatment consisted of administering perispinal injections of triamcinolone Acetonide in a total dose of 200mg, in addition to controlled exercise. After treatment, all animals returned to performing their athletic activities at a performance level greater than or equal to that demonstrated before the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain.

Frequência cardíaca, lactacidemia e gasto energético de equinos da raça Crioula em provas credenciadoras ao Freio de Ouro / [Heart rate, lactate concentration and energy expenditure of Creole breed horses during qualifying tests at Freio de Ouro]

Avaliações com o intuito de mensurar marcadores de eficiência na performance esportiva do cavalo Crioulo são escassas e de fundamental importância no que tange às possíveis especificidades da raça. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar e determinar os padrões de frequência cardíaca, velocidade, concentração de lactato e gasto energético de equinos da raça Crioula durante provas credenciadoras ao Freio de Ouro. Tais variáveis foram avaliadas durante a realização das etapas funcionais da competição. Observaram-se flutuações superiores da variável frequência cardíaca (FC) durante a realização das etapas de Andadura, Figura, Volta sobre Patas e Esbarradas (And/fig/VSP) (203bpm) e menores valores na etapa Paleteada II (185bpm) (P<0,05). Em relação à velocidade, o maior valor atingido foi registrado na etapa de Paleteada II (39,7km/h). A concentração de lactato sanguíneo aferida se mostrou elevada em todas as fases da competição, sendo o maior valor observado na etapa de Paleteada II (14,5mmol/L) (P<0,05) e o menor durante a etapa de Mangueira I (9,3mmol/L). Superior gasto energético foi atribuído à etapa de And/Fig/VSP (853,28kcal/kgPV/min). Portanto, todas as etapas funcionais podem ser classificadas como anaeróbias, por apresentarem concentrações de lactato sanguíneo acima de 4mmol/L, e demandam alto gasto energético pelos competidores.(AU)

Evaluations of athletic performance markers of Crioulo breed horses are scarce yet fundamentally important regarding possible unique characteristics of this breed. This study aimed to evaluate and determine heart rate, speed, blood lactate and energy expenditure patterns of Crioulo breed horses during qualifying tests in the functional phases of the "Freio de Ouro" championship. Higher values of heart rate during the phases "andadura, figura, voltas sobre patas, esbarradas" (And/Fig/VSP) (203bpm) and lower values at "Paleteada II" (185bpm) (P<0.05) were noticed. Regarding speed variable, the maximum value was registered at "Paleteada II" (39.7km/h). During all the phases, blood lactate concentration was high, with the highest value found at "Paleteada II" (14.5mm/L) and the lowest during "Mangueira I" (9.3mm/L) (P<0.05). Superior energy expenditure was noticed in the "And/Fig/VSP" phase (853.28Kcal/kgPV/min). Thus, all functional phases can be classified as anaerobic, as blood lactate concentrations remained above 4mmol/L, with high energy demand of the horses.(AU)

Lombalgia em equinos de vaquejada: achados clínicos, ultrassonográficos e resultados terapêuticos de 25 casos / Back pain in vaquejada horses: clinical, ultrasound findings and therapeutic outcome in 25 cases

Vinte e cinco equinos da raça Quarto de Milha, em atividade esportiva na modalidade de vaquejada no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil, 15 machos e 10 fêmeas, com idade média de 7,91 + 3,26 anos, foram examinados na propriedade de origem ou centro de treinamento para diagnóstico de baixo desempenho associado a dor lombar. O exame clínico da região toracolombar foi realizado por meio da inspeção, palpação, ultrasonografia, testes de mobilização (ventro e dorsoflexão toracolombar; flexão lateral e rotação toracolombar; flexão lateral e rotação cervical e torácica) além de análise do animal em movimento. As principais alterações encontradas foram miosite epaxial, desmite supra-espinhosa, além de atrofia do músculo multifidus. O tratamento clínico consistiu na administração de injeções periespinhais de Acetonida de triancinolona numa dose total de 200mg, além de exercício controlado. Após o tratamento, todos os animais retornaram a desempenhar suas atividades atlética em nível de desempenho superior ou igual ao demonstrado antes do diagnóstico e tratamento da lombalgia.

Twenty five horses of the Quarter horse breed, in sporting activity in the vaquejada modality in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, 15 males and 10 females, with an average age of 7.91 + 3.26 years, were examined in the property of origin or training center for low performance diagnosis associated with low back pain. The clinical examination of the thoracolumbar region was performed through inspection, palpation, ultrasonography, mobilization tests (ventral and thoracolumbar dorsoflexion; lateral flexion and thoracolumbar rotation; lateral flexion and cervical and thoracic rotation) in addition to analysis of the animal in motion. The main changes found were epaxial myositis, supraspinatus desmite, as well as atrophy of the multifidus muscle. Clinical treatment consisted of administering perispinal injections of triamcinolone Acetonide in a total dose of 200mg, in addition to controlled exercise. After treatment, all animals returned to performing their athletic activities at a performance level greater than or equal to that demonstrated before the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain.

Foals developmental orthopedic disease associated with metabolic and biometric characterization of pregnant overweight crioulo mares

Background: Musculoskeletal changes in growing foals can be linked to metabolic disorders which affect the cartilage metabolism associated of obesity during the late gestation of the mares, negatively affecting the athletic performance of the otherwise prospective foals. High basal insulin levels can be associated with increased weight and obesity of the mares, altering the supply of the glucose to the fetus and the production of IGF-1, which plays an important role in the endochondral cartilage metabolism. The present study aims to describe the association of metabolic and biometric alterations in overweight Criollo mares with IGF-1 levels and the presence of articular and physeal lesions in their foals. Materials, Methods & Results: A prospective and observational cohort study was conducted using the foals and the overweight mares at field conditions. Twenty-eight foals and their overweight mothers were utilized. The foals’ biometric and metabolic features as weight and height; glucose, total cholesterol, cholesterol HDL, triglycerides, basal insulin, leptin, glucose, total T4 and IGF-1 were analyzed, from the birth until the weaning period around sixth month of life of it. All the foals, at the weaning period, were submitted to the radiograph examination of the tarsal joints and the metacarpal-phalangeal joints to evaluate signs of lesions and the possible distal metacarpal physeal changes, respectively. The mares’ biometric and metabolic features as weight, height and fat tail-head deposition; basal insulin, leptin, glucose, total cholesterol, cholesterol HDL and triglycerides were analyzed at the final period of gestation. The basal insulin levels of the foals at the second, fourth and sixth month of life were 9.87 ± 1.82 µUI/mL, 9.13 ± 1.94 µUI/mL, 9.39 ± 2.54 µUI/mL. The IGF-1 levels of the foals at the second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth...

Radiographic and ultrasonographic imaging of a dystrophic mineralization on the oblique sesamoidean ligament in a jumping horse. Twenty months follow-up / Acompanhamento radiográfico e ultrassonográfico de calcificação distrófica no ligamento sesamoideo oblíquo em cavalo de salto. Seguimento durante 20 meses

Mineralization of the anatomical structures involved in the limb movement of horses has been reported to induce lameness and interfere with athletic performance. A 4-year-old jumping horse in sport activity was reported at Veterinary Hospital of University of São Paulo, with mild lameness and a mineralized oblique distal sesamoidean ligament (ODSL) of the left forelimb, revealed by a purchase radiographic and ultrasound examination. Mineralization is more common in tendons than ligaments. This report calls for attention to these structures when performing image exams, even in mild lameness. Long-term favorable follow-up by ultrasonographic and radiographic examination showed that the severe ligament injury in this case did not decrease the athletic activity until the present day.

A mineralização de estruturas anatômicas envolvidas na movimentação dos membros predispõe à claudicação e interfere no desempenho atlético. Foi admitido no Hospital Veterinário da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia da USP-SP um equino macho, da raça Brasileiro de Hipismo, com quatro anos de idade e histórico de claudicação leve e ligamento sesamoideo oblíquo distal mineralizado do membro torácico esquerdo, diagnosticado por exame de compra. A mineralização apresenta alta incidência em tendões, sendo em menor proporção nos ligamentos. Esse relato visa atentar à essas estruturas ao se realizar exames rotineiros de imagem, apesar de claudicação leve. O acompanhamento a longo prazo por ultrassonografia e radiografia mostrou que lesões graves de ligamentos, como no presente caso, não diminuíram a atividade atlética até o momento.

Radiographic and ultrasonographic imaging of a dystrophic mineralization on the oblique sesamoidean ligament in a jumping horse. Twenty months follow-up / Acompanhamento radiográfico e ultrassonográfico de calcificação distrófica no ligamento sesamoideo oblíquo em cavalo de salto. Seguimento durante 20 meses

Mineralization of the anatomical structures involved in the limb movement of horses has been reported to induce lameness and interfere with athletic performance. A 4-year-old jumping horse in sport activity was reported at Veterinary Hospital of University of São Paulo, with mild lameness and a mineralized oblique distal sesamoidean ligament (ODSL) of the left forelimb, revealed by a purchase radiographic and ultrasound examination. Mineralization is more common in tendons than ligaments. This report calls for attention to these structures when performing image exams, even in mild lameness. Long-term favorable follow-up by ultrasonographic and radiographic examination showed that the severe ligament injury in this case did not decrease the athletic activity until the present day.

A mineralização de estruturas anatômicas envolvidas na movimentação dos membros predispõe à claudicação e interfere no desempenho atlético. Foi admitido no Hospital Veterinário da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia da USP-SP um equino macho, da raça Brasileiro de Hipismo, com quatro anos de idade e histórico de claudicação leve e ligamento sesamoideo oblíquo distal mineralizado do membro torácico esquerdo, diagnosticado por exame de compra. A mineralização apresenta alta incidência em tendões, sendo em menor proporção nos ligamentos. Esse relato visa atentar à essas estruturas ao se realizar exames rotineiros de imagem, apesar de claudicação leve. O acompanhamento a longo prazo por ultrassonografia e radiografia mostrou que lesões graves de ligamentos, como no presente caso, não diminuíram a atividade atlética até o momento.

The correlation between score-based protocol for equine joint assessment and subsequent arthroscopic intervention outcomes / Protocolo de avaliação baseado em escore das afecções articulares em equinos e correlação com o resultado do tratamento por artroscopia

This study aimed to grade joint abnormalities in horses submitted to therapeutic arthroscopy using score-based protocols for equine joint assessment, correlated with arthroscopic treatment outcomes and owner satisfaction. In this prospective study, we evaluated 126 joints of athletic horses referred for arthroscopy. The joints were scored according to findings of medical history and physical, radiographic, ultrasonographic and arthroscopic examination. Lameness, positive response to flexion test and decreased maximum joint flexion angle were detected in more than 50% of joints. Soft tissue swelling, sclerosis, subchondral bone osteolysis and single osteochondral fragments were the most common radiographic findings. Ultrasonographic examination revealed changes in synovial fluid volume and appearance, and subchondral bone irregularities. Increased vascularity of the synovial villi, chondral fibrillation, chondral fissures and superficial cartilage erosions were the most significant arthroscopic findings. The approaches that demonstrated greater sensitivity and correlation with treatment outcome and owner satisfaction were medical history, ultrasonographic and arthroscopic examination. The scoring protocol employed to grade joint abnormalities enabled the creation of a joint score system for the objective assessment, thus determining the most frequent findings and establishing an

O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar as anormalidades articulares observadas em equinos submetidos à artroscopia terapêutica, utilizando protocolos baseados em pontuações e correlacionando os resultados do tratamento cirúrgico com a satisfação do proprietário. Neste estudo prospectivo, foram avaliadas 126 articulações de cavalos atletas, encaminhados para artroscopia. As articulações foram pontuadas de acordo com os achados da anamnese e exame físico, exame radiográfico, exame ultrassonográfico e avaliação artroscópica. A claudicação, resposta positiva ao teste de flexão e diminuição do ângulo máximo de flexão articular foram detectados em mais de 50% das articulações. Aumento de volume dos tecidos moles, esclerose subcondral, osteólise subcondral e fragmentos osteocondrais únicos foram os achados radiográficos mais comuns. O exame ultrassonográfico revelou, com frequência, as alterações no volume e na aparência do líquido sinovial, além de irregularidades osteocondrais. O aumento da vascularização das vilosidades sinoviais, fibrilação condral, fissuras condrais e erosões superficiais da cartilagem foram os achados artroscópicos mais significativos. As abordagens diagnósticas que demonstraram maior sensibilidade e melhor correlação entre o resultado do tratamento e satisfação do proprietário foram história médica, exame ultrassonográfico e artroscópico. O protocolo de avaliação

The correlation between score-based protocol for equine joint assessment and subsequent arthroscopic intervention outcomes / Protocolo de avaliação baseado em escore das afecções articulares em equinos e correlação com o resultado do tratamento por artroscopia

This study aimed to grade joint abnormalities in horses submitted to therapeutic arthroscopy using score-based protocols for equine joint assessment, correlated with arthroscopic treatment outcomes and owner satisfaction. In this prospective study, we evaluated 126 joints of athletic horses referred for arthroscopy. The joints were scored according to findings of medical history and physical, radiographic, ultrasonographic and arthroscopic examination. Lameness, positive response to flexion test and decreased maximum joint flexion angle were detected in more than 50% of joints. Soft tissue swelling, sclerosis, subchondral bone osteolysis and single osteochondral fragments were the most common radiographic findings. Ultrasonographic examination revealed changes in synovial fluid volume and appearance, and subchondral bone irregularities. Increased vascularity of the synovial villi, chondral fibrillation, chondral fissures and superficial cartilage erosions were the most significant arthroscopic findings. The approaches that demonstrated greater sensitivity and correlation with treatment outcome and owner satisfaction were medical history, ultrasonographic and arthroscopic examination. The scoring protocol employed to grade joint abnormalities enabled the creation of a joint score system for the objective assessment, thus determining the most frequent findings and establishing an

O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar as anormalidades articulares observadas em equinos submetidos à artroscopia terapêutica, utilizando protocolos baseados em pontuações e correlacionando os resultados do tratamento cirúrgico com a satisfação do proprietário. Neste estudo prospectivo, foram avaliadas 126 articulações de cavalos atletas, encaminhados para artroscopia. As articulações foram pontuadas de acordo com os achados da anamnese e exame físico, exame radiográfico, exame ultrassonográfico e avaliação artroscópica. A claudicação, resposta positiva ao teste de flexão e diminuição do ângulo máximo de flexão articular foram detectados em mais de 50% das articulações. Aumento de volume dos tecidos moles, esclerose subcondral, osteólise subcondral e fragmentos osteocondrais únicos foram os achados radiográficos mais comuns. O exame ultrassonográfico revelou, com frequência, as alterações no volume e na aparência do líquido sinovial, além de irregularidades osteocondrais. O aumento da vascularização das vilosidades sinoviais, fibrilação condral, fissuras condrais e erosões superficiais da cartilagem foram os achados artroscópicos mais significativos. As abordagens diagnósticas que demonstraram maior sensibilidade e melhor correlação entre o resultado do tratamento e satisfação do proprietário foram história médica, exame ultrassonográfico e artroscópico. O protocolo de avaliação

Effects of exercise on cations/anions in blood serum of English Thoroughbred horses / Efeito do exercício sobre cátions/ânions em soro sanguíneo de equinos da raça Puro-Sangue-Inglês

English Thoroughbred horses, are widespread in Mexico and due to the lack of data on their exercise physiology, it is important to conduct exercise tests in order to obtain information the effects of exercise on more essential cations/anions in blood serum, as these horses are submitted to constant efforts. The study was carried out with 150 blood samples of English Thoroughbred horses clinically healthy. The blood sample collection was performed during three periods: 1) rest, 2) 30min after exercise (speed race of 12km/h for 30min with no rest) and 3) 60min after exercise. Mean values were calculated for cations (sodium and potassium) and anions (chloride and bicarbonate). The resulting data set was analyzed using Gaussian distribution and descriptive statistics. Confidence intervals of 95% were established. The linear relationships between ions were quantified, and an analysis of variance was performed to compare the mean values between groups. The concentrations of the described analytes are consistent with values reported by international literature. The comparison between groups, revealed that during exercise, sodium ion did not show changes 30min after exercise and increase 60min after. Potassium ion showed increase 30min after exercise and decrease 60min after. Chloride ion showed a decrease 30min after exercise, to recover gradually 60min after. Meanwhile, bicarbonate ion showed increase 30min after exercise, decreasing slightly in the final stage. Negative correlation between bicarbonate ion and chloride ion were determined. It was concluded that exercise tests are useful for the determination of acid-base balance and osmotic balance, and their main role is to evaluate the athletic ability of horses.Considering that chloride ion excretion and metabolic adjustments of potassium ion and bicarbonate ion are superior to water loss, compared to the normal osmolarity of blood serum. The results found can be used to structure an adequate replacement program of electrolytes lost in sweat.(AU)

Equinos da raça Puro-Sangue-Inglês são difundidos no México e, devido à falta de dados sobre sua fisiologia do exercício, é importante fazer testes de exercício para obter informações sobre os efeitos do exercício em cátions/ânions mais essenciais no soro do sangue, pois esses equinos são submetidos a esforços constantes. O estudo foi realizado com 150 amostras de sangue de equinos Puro-Sangue-Inglês, clinicamente saudáveis. A coleta de sangue foi realizada em três períodos: 1) descanso, 2) 30min após o exercício (corrida de velocidade de 12km/h por 30min, sem descanso) e 3) 60min após o exercício. Os valores médios foram calculados para cátions (sódio e potássio) e ânions (cloreto e bicarbonato). O conjunto de dados resultante foi analisado utilizando-se distribuição gaussiana e estatística descritiva. Intervalos de confiança de 95% foram estabelecidos. As relações lineares entre os íons foram quantificadas, e uma análise de variância foi realizada para se compararem os valores médios entre grupos. As concentrações dos analitos descritos são consistentes com os valores relatados na literatura internacional. A comparação entre os grupos revelou que, durante o exercício, o sódio íon não mostrou alterações 30min após o exercício e aumentou 60min após. O potássio íon mostrou aumento 30min após o exercício e diminuiu 60min após. O cloreto íon mostrou uma diminuição 30min após o exercício, para recuperar gradualmente 60min depois. O bicarbonato íon mostrou aumento 30min após o exercício, diminuindo ligeiramente no estágio final. Correlação negativa entre bicarbonato íon e cloreto íon foi encontrada. Concluiu-se que os testes de exercício são úteis para a determinação do equilíbrio ácido-base e do equilíbrio osmótico, e seu principal papel é avaliar a capacidade atlética dos equinos. Considerando-se que a excreção de cloro íon e ajustes metabólicos de potássio íon e bicarbonato íon são superiores à perda de água, comparada à osmolaridade normal do soro sanguíneo,os resultados encontrados podem ser usados para estruturar um programa adequado de reposição de eletrólitos perdidos no suor.(AU)

Effects of exercise on cations/anions in blood serum of English Thoroughbred horses / Efeito do exercício sobre cátions/ânions em soro sanguíneo de equinos da raça Puro-Sangue-Inglês

English Thoroughbred horses, are widespread in Mexico and due to the lack of data on their exercise physiology, it is important to conduct exercise tests in order to obtain information the effects of exercise on more essential cations/anions in blood serum, as these horses are submitted to constant efforts. The study was carried out with 150 blood samples of English Thoroughbred horses clinically healthy. The blood sample collection was performed during three periods: 1) rest, 2) 30min after exercise (speed race of 12km/h for 30min with no rest) and 3) 60min after exercise. Mean values were calculated for cations (sodium and potassium) and anions (chloride and bicarbonate). The resulting data set was analyzed using Gaussian distribution and descriptive statistics. Confidence intervals of 95% were established. The linear relationships between ions were quantified, and an analysis of variance was performed to compare the mean values between groups. The concentrations of the described analytes are consistent with values reported by international literature. The comparison between groups, revealed that during exercise, sodium ion did not show changes 30min after exercise and increase 60min after. Potassium ion showed increase 30min after exercise and decrease 60min after. Chloride ion showed a decrease 30min after exercise, to recover gradually 60min after. Meanwhile, bicarbonate ion showed increase 30min after exercise, decreasing slightly in the final stage. Negative correlation between bicarbonate ion and chloride ion were determined. It was concluded that exercise tests are useful for the determination of acid-base balance and osmotic balance, and their main role is to evaluate the athletic ability of horses.Considering that chloride ion excretion and metabolic adjustments of potassium ion and bicarbonate ion are superior to water loss, compared to the normal osmolarity of blood serum. The results found can be used to structure an adequate replacement program of electrolytes lost in sweat.(AU)

Equinos da raça Puro-Sangue-Inglês são difundidos no México e, devido à falta de dados sobre sua fisiologia do exercício, é importante fazer testes de exercício para obter informações sobre os efeitos do exercício em cátions/ânions mais essenciais no soro do sangue, pois esses equinos são submetidos a esforços constantes. O estudo foi realizado com 150 amostras de sangue de equinos Puro-Sangue-Inglês, clinicamente saudáveis. A coleta de sangue foi realizada em três períodos: 1) descanso, 2) 30min após o exercício (corrida de velocidade de 12km/h por 30min, sem descanso) e 3) 60min após o exercício. Os valores médios foram calculados para cátions (sódio e potássio) e ânions (cloreto e bicarbonato). O conjunto de dados resultante foi analisado utilizando-se distribuição gaussiana e estatística descritiva. Intervalos de confiança de 95% foram estabelecidos. As relações lineares entre os íons foram quantificadas, e uma análise de variância foi realizada para se compararem os valores médios entre grupos. As concentrações dos analitos descritos são consistentes com os valores relatados na literatura internacional. A comparação entre os grupos revelou que, durante o exercício, o sódio íon não mostrou alterações 30min após o exercício e aumentou 60min após. O potássio íon mostrou aumento 30min após o exercício e diminuiu 60min após. O cloreto íon mostrou uma diminuição 30min após o exercício, para recuperar gradualmente 60min depois. O bicarbonato íon mostrou aumento 30min após o exercício, diminuindo ligeiramente no estágio final. Correlação negativa entre bicarbonato íon e cloreto íon foi encontrada. Concluiu-se que os testes de exercício são úteis para a determinação do equilíbrio ácido-base e do equilíbrio osmótico, e seu principal papel é avaliar a capacidade atlética dos equinos. Considerando-se que a excreção de cloro íon e ajustes metabólicos de potássio íon e bicarbonato íon são superiores à perda de água, comparada à osmolaridade normal do soro sanguíneo,os resultados encontrados podem ser usados para estruturar um programa adequado de reposição de eletrólitos perdidos no suor.(AU)

Comportamento da membrana biossintética de celulose como implante peritendíneo em potros / Behavior of cellulose biosynthetic membrane as a peritendinous implant in foals

Background: Tendon injuries are common in horses and are commonly associated with lameness and athletic career disruption.Adhesions formed between the tendons and the surrounding tissues compromise the sliding and movement of the structures,compromising their functionality. Therefore, the control of adhesion formation is critical to restore the structural integrity of thetendon, as well as its biomechanical function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the behavior of the biosynthetic cellulosemembrane implanted in foals with surgically induced tendinitis of the superficial digital flexor.Materials, Methods & Results: Six healthy foals were used, which underwent tendinitis induction in the superficial digital flexorof the right and left forelimbs. The lesions was induced by local ischemia by crushing the tendon with hemostatic forceps. Thebiosynthetic cellulose membrane was implanted only in the right forelimb, involving the superficial digital flexor tendon in theregion of the ischemia and the left forelimb was used as control. After surgery, both forelimb were immobilized with syntheticplaster cast for 15 days. Ultrasonography was performed in six foals immediately before (M0), at 15° (M1) at and 30° (M2) day,and three were evaluate at 45° (M3) and 60° (M4) day after surgery. Incisional biopsies were performed in three animals on the30° day and in three animals on the 60° day after surgery. Histopathological examination involved the analysis of tissue disorganization, presence and type of inflammatory infiltrate and neovascularization, according to the score of 0 to 3. Ultrasonographyallowed visualization of the membrane, which was characterized as a continuous hyperechoic line at the edges of the tendon at15 days (M1). In addition, at 30 and 45 days after surgery, interruption of the hyperechoic line and reduction of echogenicitywere observed, and no echogenic lines were observed at 60 days after surgery...(AU)

Comportamento da membrana biossintética de celulose como implante peritendíneo em potros / Behavior of cellulose biosynthetic membrane as a peritendinous implant in foals

Background: Tendon injuries are common in horses and are commonly associated with lameness and athletic career disruption.Adhesions formed between the tendons and the surrounding tissues compromise the sliding and movement of the structures,compromising their functionality. Therefore, the control of adhesion formation is critical to restore the structural integrity of thetendon, as well as its biomechanical function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the behavior of the biosynthetic cellulosemembrane implanted in foals with surgically induced tendinitis of the superficial digital flexor.Materials, Methods & Results: Six healthy foals were used, which underwent tendinitis induction in the superficial digital flexorof the right and left forelimbs. The lesions was induced by local ischemia by crushing the tendon with hemostatic forceps. Thebiosynthetic cellulose membrane was implanted only in the right forelimb, involving the superficial digital flexor tendon in theregion of the ischemia and the left forelimb was used as control. After surgery, both forelimb were immobilized with syntheticplaster cast for 15 days. Ultrasonography was performed in six foals immediately before (M0), at 15° (M1) at and 30° (M2) day,and three were evaluate at 45° (M3) and 60° (M4) day after surgery. Incisional biopsies were performed in three animals on the30° day and in three animals on the 60° day after surgery. Histopathological examination involved the analysis of tissue disorganization, presence and type of inflammatory infiltrate and neovascularization, according to the score of 0 to 3. Ultrasonographyallowed visualization of the membrane, which was characterized as a continuous hyperechoic line at the edges of the tendon at15 days (M1). In addition, at 30 and 45 days after surgery, interruption of the hyperechoic line and reduction of echogenicitywere observed, and no echogenic lines were observed at 60 days after surgery...

Evaluation of two models of saddles on the back of Arabian horses through thermography / Avaliação de dois modelos de selas sobre o dorso de cavalos Árabes com o emprego da termografia

Dorsopathies are common causes of decreased performance in athletic horses of various modalities, and inadequate or poorly adjusted saddles can lead to the onset of injuries and low back pain. The present study, searching to find the most appropriate saddle, evaluated the pressure determined from the panels of two saddle models most commonly used in endurance Arab horse on the thoracolumbar region. For the study, six Arabian geldings were used, weighing 390 ± 4.2 and 2.1 ± age 8 years, conditioned to endurance races, and two saddle models, English and Western. The horses were submitted to the work riding on a sandy lane by the same experienced rider who weighed 76 kg. Thermography was performed before and after each exercise session. The obtained data were analyzed through Student's paired t-test at 5% of significance. After exercise, there was a mean temperature difference between the contact areas of the right and left of the sweepers of two saddles compared, with the English saddle showing higher temperatures. Therefore, the Western saddle model, which has wider panels, despite not being a preferred model of endure riders, has proved to be more suitable for Arabian horse work.(AU)

As dorsopatias são causas comuns de diminuição de desempenho em cavalos atletas de várias modalidades e a sela inadequada ou mal ajustada pode levar ao aparecimento de lesões e dor lombar. O presente trabalho avaliou a pressão que os suadores dos dois modelos de sela mais comumente utilizados em cavalos Árabes de enduro exercem sobre a região toracolombar desses animais de modo a sugerir o uso do que fosse mais adequado. Foram utilizados seis cavalos da raça Árabe, machos castrados, com peso de 390 ± 4,2 e idade 8 ± 2,1 anos, condicionados para as provas enduro de velocidade livre e dois modelos de sela, a Inglesa e a Western. Os cavalos foram submetidos ao trabalho montado em pista de areia pelo mesmo cavaleiro, experiente, que pesou 76 kg. Foi realizada a termografia antes e depois das sessões de exercício. Os dados obtidos foram analisados através de teste T pareado de Student a 5% de significância. Houve diferença de temperatura média, após o exercício, entre as áreas de contato dos suadores direito e esquerdo da sela Inglesa e da sela Western, quando comparados, sendo que a sela Inglesa apresentou maiores temperaturas. Portanto, o modelo de sela Western, que possui suadores largos, embora não seja o modelo de preferência dos cavaleiros de enduro, mostrou-se mais adequado para o trabalho de cavalos Árabes.(AU)