Arthroscopy, also known as keyhole surgery on a joint, is a modern, minimally invasive surgical technique that allows joints to be examined and treated from the inside. The term ‘minimally invasive’ refers to surgical techniques that cause as little tissue damage as possible, which generally results in a faster recovery.

During arthroscopy, two or more small incisions (approximately 6–8 mm in diameter), known as portals, are made. An arthroscope (a viewing tube with a diameter of 4 mm) is inserted into the joint via one portal, enabling the surgeon to examine the joint structures in detail. Surgical instruments, such as a probe or rongeur, are inserted via a second portal to carry out the necessary treatment with precision.

Benefits of arthroscopy

Arthroscopic surgery is performed to diagnose and treat joint problems in horses. The most common indication is OCD (Osteochondrosis dissecans), often referred to as a ‘chip’ in practice.

OCD is caused by small loose fragments of bone or cartilage forming within the joint. This usually occurs whilst the young horse is growing, when the cartilage and the underlying bone do not develop properly.

The development of OCD is multifactorial and can be influenced by genetic predisposition, growth rate, diet and exercise.

Many of a horse’s joints can be examined and treated arthroscopically. The most common joints in which arthroscopy is performed are the hock joint, the knee joint, the pastern joint and the coffin joint.

OCD fragments and other loose particles are most commonly found in these joints. In specific cases, surgery may also be performed on other joints, such as the wrist, elbow, shoulder and hip joints. Recent developments have also made it possible to remove fragments from the cervical joints (facet joints).

Would you like more information about arthroscopic surgery? Please feel free to contact us. We’d be happy to offer you tailored advice.