Arthroscopy - Dierenkliniek Hattem-Wapenveld

Arthroscopy

This is a procedure which is regularly performed in our clinic. The operation is often indicated when a horse appears to suffer from OCD (osteochondrosis dissecans) in a joint. OCD develops when there is a failure in the conversion of cartilage to bone. This results in local thickening of the cartilage layer in a joint. The thickening leads to the impairment of nutrition and a diminished quality of the cartilage. Ultimately this may result in the release of fragments from the cartilage, which is called OCD.

The OCD fragments can be removed through surgery, by using a scope (a small camera) which enables the surgeon to look inside the joint. With this method it is possible to remove the fragments and smoothen the parts where the cartilage is damaged. The fragments are removed through small holes in the joint capsule. One opening is made for placing the scope, so the OCD fragment can be visualised. Through another opening, instruments are placed inside the joint, in order to remove the fragment.

Benefits of this procedure are:

  • Quick access to the place of surgery
  • The joint can be visualised very clearly
  • Little tissue damage
  • Quick recovery
  • Little development of scar tissue

On the long term:

  • The horse will become less prone to develop arthrosis
  • Increasing the duration of a high level sport career