## Overview Subchondral bone cysts are fluid-filled cavities in the bone just beneath the joint cartilage. They are part of developmental orthopedic disease or follow trauma. Common sites include the medial femoral condyle of the stifle and the distal cannon bone. They cause lameness and are diagnosed on radiographs. ## Causes Developmental disturbance or osteochondral trauma. ## Diagnosis Radiographs showing a lucent cyst with a sclerotic rim. ## Treatment Rest, intra-articular medication, or surgical debridement or grafting depending on site and size. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. Stifle cysts have a more guarded athletic prognosis than some other locations. ## Prevention Balanced growth management in young horses.
lameness localized to the affected joint; radiographic cyst; common in the medial femoral condyle
## Overview Subchondral bone cysts are fluid-filled cavities in the bone just beneath the joint cartilage. They are part of developmental orthopedic disease or follow trauma. Common sites include the medial femoral condyle of the stifle and the distal cannon bone. They cause lameness and are diagnosed on radiographs. ## Causes Developmental disturbance or osteochondral trauma. ## Diagnosis Radiographs showing a lucent cyst with a sclerotic rim. ## Treatment Rest, intra-articular medication, or surgical debridement or grafting depending on site and size. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. Stifle cysts have a more guarded athletic prognosis than some other locations. ## Prevention Balanced growth management in young horses.
lameness localized to the affected joint; radiographic cyst; common in the medial femoral condyle