How long before stifle causes issue? Piece of string type question.

[pistolpete]

This is what my ponies stifle looks like inside. He’s coping well at the moment but vet says he has to be retired. I’m fine with this but just wonder if anyone has a story of a similar looking stifle and horse is stable for a long time? He’s a 13 year old highland.

 

[Goldenstar]

Has the vet discussed putting arthimid of similar into the stifle ?
If not do ask I did it with Fatty and though he never came sound enough to hunt it made a big difference to his well being .

 

[pistolpete]

I did ask about that and was told it wouldn’t help him as it’s so fractured. It’s an old injury according to vet. Amazing he’s been sound for so long. Something caused it to start hurting recently.

 

[Goldenstar]

That’s awful bad luck .
stifles are hard to deal with that sounds bad , I hope he can enjoy retirement .