Any success stories with Arthroscopy of hocks?

[nedzy]

Hi,

My IDX has had arthroscopy and clear out of cartilage in hock and is currently on box rest. Vet is giving guarded prognosis, and at the moment the hock still looks swollen (two weeks after op). Can anyone with similar experience tell me what to expect both swelling and performance prognosis please?

 

[mja]

Googled this as Im sure you have so prob know this already -

Key hole surgery is more properly known as 'arthroscopy'. Strict hygiene (asepsis) is required during this surgery. A small hole is made surgically into the joint (this is known as a portal). A small fibreoptic instrument (the arthroscope) is introduced through this portal, and a second portal created through which various instruments can be introduced. The inside of the joint is displayed on a large television set, so that they surgeon can manipulate the instruments within the joint to help repair the damaged area.


A large flap of loose cartilage could be seen within the joint. This was carefully removed and the underlying bone smoothed off.


Arthroscopy can take up to an hour and a half, careful monitoring of the horse whilst it is anaesthetised is essential. On occasion extensive cartilage damage is found. As well as enabling direct treatment of the damaged area at surgery, a course of intra articular medication will be given to aid healing.