Pathologic changes in the lumbosacral vertebrae and pelvis in Thoroughbred racehorses
Haussler, K.K.; Stover, S.M.; Willits, N.H.
American Journal of Veterinary Research 60(2): 143-153
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9645 PMID: 10048543 Document Number: 498789
36 Thoroughbred racehorses that died or were killed at California race courses between October 1993 and July 1994 were used to study the prevalence, characteristics and severity of soft-tissue and osseous lesions in the caudal portion of the thoracic and lumbosacral vertebral column and pelvis. Lumbosacral and pelvic specimens were collected and visually examined for soft-tissue and osseous lesions. Acute sacro-iliac joint injury was observed in 2 specimens. Signs of chronic laxity or subluxation of the sacro-iliac joint were not observed in any specimens. Impingement of the dorsal spinous processes and transverse processes was observed in 92 and 97% of specimens, respectively. Thoracolumbar articular processes had variable degrees of degenerative change in 97% of specimens. Degenerative changes were observed at lumbar inter-transverse joints and sacro-iliac articulations in all specimens. Some degenerative changes were widespread and severe. Numerous degenerative changes affected vertebral processes, intervertebral articulations and sacro-iliac joints in these Thoroughbred racehorses. It is concluded that various types of vertebral and pelvic lesions need to be considered during clinical evaluation of the back and pelvis in horses. Undiagnosed vertebral or pelvic lesions could be an important contributor to poor performance and lameness in athletic horses.