## Overview Carpal chip fractures are osteochondral fragments that break from the dorsal margins of the carpal bones, most often during high-speed exercise. They are a leading cause of lameness in racehorses. Common locations include the distal radial carpal bone and proximal third carpal bone. Fragments cause synovitis and, if left untreated, progressive cartilage damage. ## Causes Hyperextension and repetitive loading of the carpus during fast work are the primary mechanisms. Poor conformation, fatigue, and unsuitable racing surfaces contribute. ## Diagnosis Joint effusion, lameness that improves with carpal flexion or worsens after work, and positive response to intra-articular analgesia are typical. Radiographs demonstrate the fragment. Arthroscopy provides definitive assessment of cartilage damage. ## Treatment Arthroscopic removal of the fragment is the treatment of choice. Postoperative rest and progressive rehabilitation follow. Prognosis depends on the degree of cartilage injury observed at surgery. ## Recovery and Prognosis Many horses return to racing after uncomplicated chip removal. Extensive cartilage loss lowers the chance of sustained high-level performance. ## Prevention Gradual introduction to high-speed work and attention to track surface may reduce incidence, although evidence is limited.
carpal joint effusion; forelimb lameness after fast work; pain on carpal flexion; radiographic osteochondral fragment
## Overview Carpal chip fractures are osteochondral fragments that break from the dorsal margins of the carpal bones, most often during high-speed exercise. They are a leading cause of lameness in racehorses. Common locations include the distal radial carpal bone and proximal third carpal bone. Fragments cause synovitis and, if left untreated, progressive cartilage damage. ## Causes Hyperextension and repetitive loading of the carpus during fast work are the primary mechanisms. Poor conformation, fatigue, and unsuitable racing surfaces contribute. ## Diagnosis Joint effusion, lameness that improves with carpal flexion or worsens after work, and positive response to intra-articular analgesia are typical. Radiographs demonstrate the fragment. Arthroscopy provides definitive assessment of cartilage damage. ## Treatment Arthroscopic removal of the fragment is the treatment of choice. Postoperative rest and progressive rehabilitation follow. Prognosis depends on the degree of cartilage injury observed at surgery. ## Recovery and Prognosis Many horses return to racing after uncomplicated chip removal. Extensive cartilage loss lowers the chance of sustained high-level performance. ## Prevention Gradual introduction to high-speed work and attention to track surface may reduce incidence, although evidence is limited.
carpal joint effusion; forelimb lameness after fast work; pain on carpal flexion; radiographic osteochondral fragment