## Overview Slab fractures are very common in racehorses, particularly frontal slabs of the radial facet of the third carpal bone. They occur during high-speed exercise and produce acute carpal lameness and effusion. Surgical repair with lag screws is standard. ## Causes Repetitive high-speed loading. ## Diagnosis Radiographs, sometimes with computed tomography. ## Treatment Arthroscopically guided lag-screw fixation. ## Recovery and Prognosis Many horses return to racing after successful repair. ## Prevention Training adjustments when early carpal changes are detected.
acute carpal lameness during fast work; effusion; radiographic slab of the third carpal bone
## Overview Slab fractures are very common in racehorses, particularly frontal slabs of the radial facet of the third carpal bone. They occur during high-speed exercise and produce acute carpal lameness and effusion. Surgical repair with lag screws is standard. ## Causes Repetitive high-speed loading. ## Diagnosis Radiographs, sometimes with computed tomography. ## Treatment Arthroscopically guided lag-screw fixation. ## Recovery and Prognosis Many horses return to racing after successful repair. ## Prevention Training adjustments when early carpal changes are detected.
acute carpal lameness during fast work; effusion; radiographic slab of the third carpal bone