## Overview Chip fractures are small osteochondral fragments that separate from the margin of a joint, most commonly the carpus or fetlock in racehorses. They result from acute overload or from propagation of stress-related microdamage. Fragments cause synovitis and, if left in place, progressive cartilage damage. ## Causes High-speed loading, hyperextension, and fatigue failure of subchondral bone. ## Diagnosis Joint effusion, lameness, and radiographic demonstration of the fragment. Arthroscopy assesses associated cartilage injury. ## Treatment Arthroscopic removal is the standard of care for clinically significant chips. ## Recovery and Prognosis Many horses return to athletic use. Extensive cartilage damage lowers the prognosis. ## Prevention Gradual conditioning and attention to racing surfaces may reduce incidence.
joint effusion; lameness after exercise; pain on flexion; radiographic fragment
## Overview Chip fractures are small osteochondral fragments that separate from the margin of a joint, most commonly the carpus or fetlock in racehorses. They result from acute overload or from propagation of stress-related microdamage. Fragments cause synovitis and, if left in place, progressive cartilage damage. ## Causes High-speed loading, hyperextension, and fatigue failure of subchondral bone. ## Diagnosis Joint effusion, lameness, and radiographic demonstration of the fragment. Arthroscopy assesses associated cartilage injury. ## Treatment Arthroscopic removal is the standard of care for clinically significant chips. ## Recovery and Prognosis Many horses return to athletic use. Extensive cartilage damage lowers the prognosis. ## Prevention Gradual conditioning and attention to racing surfaces may reduce incidence.
joint effusion; lameness after exercise; pain on flexion; radiographic fragment