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Treß D, Lischer C, Merle R, Ehrle A. International survey of equine orthopaedic specialists reveals diverse treatment strategies for horses with overriding spinous processes. Vet Rec 2024; 194:e3899. [PMID: 38379241 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overriding spinous processes, also known as 'kissing spines', are one of the most common causes of back pain in horses. The aim of this study was to investigate which options for diagnosis and treatment are preferred by equine orthopaedic specialists and assess which techniques are used for local injection. METHODS An online survey was distributed among members of the European/American College of Veterinary Surgeons, the European/American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, the International Society of Equine Locomotor Pathology and nationally recognised advanced equine orthopaedic practitioners. RESULTS The survey was completed by 353 respondents. The injection techniques most commonly used involve placing two needles abaxial to the interspinous space (42%) under ultrasonographic guidance (32%) or one needle in the midline (35%) between two spinous processes. The most popular combination for overriding dorsal spinous process therapy was local injection (26.7%) combined with controlled exercise (25.5%). Manual therapy was considered by 42% of European and 25% of American specialists (p = 0.01). Surgical intervention as a first-line treatment was recommended mainly by specialists working in the United States, the UK or Ireland (p = 0.001). Overall, most equine orthopaedic veterinarians (71%; n = 201) preferred conservative management and recommended surgery only for horses that did not respond to conservative therapy. LIMITATIONS Respondents' personal bias may have skewed the findings. CONCLUSIONS Despite a growing body of evidence, the therapeutic approach to 'kissing spines' in horses is influenced by professional specialisation and regional preferences. Variations in injection techniques and differing criteria for surgical intervention warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothea Treß
- Equine Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Lischer
- Equine Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Roswitha Merle
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anna Ehrle
- Equine Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Domańska-Kruppa N, Wierzbicka M, Stefanik E. Advances in the Clinical Diagnostics to Equine Back Pain: A Review of Imaging and Functional Modalities. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:698. [PMID: 38473083 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Back pain is common in ridden horses. Back diseases in horses include Impinging Dorsal Spinous Processes, Ventral Spondylosis, Osteoarthritis of Articular Process, Intervertebral Discs Disease, Vertebral Fractures, Conformational Abnormalities, Desmopathy of the Supraspinous Ligament, Desmopathy of the Intraspinous Ligament, and Longissimus Muscle Strain. Back pain may also develop as a result of lameness (particularly hindlimb lameness). A poorly fitting saddle and an unbalanced rider are also considered important factors influencing the development of back pain in horses. The conventional diagnosis of equine back pain includes a clinical examination and diagnostic imaging examination using ultrasound, radiography, and thermography. Advanced diagnostic modalities of equine back pain involve the objectification of standard procedures through the use of algometers, a lameness locator, biometric mats, and the geometric morphometrics method. In addition to modern diagnostic methods, such as computed tomography and scintigraphy, advances in the diagnosis of equine back pain include the use of electromyography and functional electrical stimulation. The aim of this review article is to familiarize clinicians with the usefulness and capabilities of conventional diagnostic protocols and advanced diagnostic modalities. Although orthopedic examination and traditional diagnostic methods will remain the foundation of the diagnosis of back diseases, modern methods meet the growing expectations towards high-performance horses and allow for deeper diagnostics and objective monitoring of rehabilitation and training progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Domańska-Kruppa
- Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Wierzbicka
- Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Stefanik
- Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland
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3
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Horne CR, Tufts S. Advances in Imaging Techniques to Guide Therapies and Monitor Response to the Treatment of Musculoskeletal Injuries. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2023; 39:489-501. [PMID: 37482520 DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2023.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Continual advancements in diagnostic imaging have allowed for more accurate and complete diagnoses of injuries in the performance horse. The use of several different imaging tools has further allowed the equine sports medicine clinician to more carefully direct treatment options, monitor response to therapy and guide rehabilitation recommendations. The advancements in diagnostic imaging and novel treatment options have led to the improvement in the overall prognosis of many injuries that affect the horse and their performance. The purpose of this section is to review the advancements made in diagnostic imaging of the horse and to aid the practitioner in the selection of the appropriate modality and how best to use them to guide treatment and monitoring decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn R Horne
- North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA.
| | - Sara Tufts
- North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
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4
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Morgan RE, Fiske-Jackson A, Chang YM. Comparison of ultrasonographic and computed tomographic imaging of equine thoracolumbar articular process joints. Equine Vet J 2023. [PMID: 37904723 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoarthritis of the equine thoracolumbar articular process joints (APJs) has been linked to back pain. Changes are commonly diagnosed through nuclear scintigraphy, radiography and ultrasonography (US). OBJECTIVES (1) To assess the agreement of APJ grades between US and computed tomography (CT) images; (2) to assess the effect of location on the agreement of APJ grades between US and CT images. It was hypothesised that: (1) Periarticular modelling and modification of the joint space would have the highest and lowest agreement between US and CT images, respectively; (2) Caudal thoracolumbar APJ grades would have higher agreement between US and CT images than mid thoracic APJs. STUDY DESIGN Comparative diagnostic imaging study using cadaveric specimens. METHODS Disarticulated thoracolumbar spines of six equids euthanised for reasons unrelated to back pain, underwent US and CT examination of the APJs. Images were assessed for periarticular modelling, modification of the joint space and enlargement of the APJ. Intra-observer, inter-modality and inter-observer agreement using multilevel weighted kappa statistics to evaluate the effects of location, US/CT characteristic and their interaction. RESULTS Intra-observer agreement of US and CT grades ranged from moderate to perfect. Between T15 and L1, inter-modality agreement (CT vs. US) for periarticular modelling was moderate, and fair for enlargement and modification of the joint space. Inter-observer agreement (US vs. US) of periarticular modelling was substantial between T15 and L1, moderate between L1 and L5 and fair between T10 and T15. Wide confidence intervals (CIs) seen for most grades apart from inter-observer grades of periarticular modelling at T15-L5, introducing a degree of uncertainty into the results. MAIN LIMITATIONS Large prevalence index influenced kappa values, small sample size. CONCLUSIONS Good inter-observer (US vs. US) and inter-modality (CT vs. US) agreement of caudal thoracolumbar APJ periarticular modelling. This US characteristic provides a measure of bone change, therefore supporting the use of diagnostic ultrasound. Inter-modality CIs were wide, highlighting the study and imaging modality limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhiannon E Morgan
- Equine Referral Hospital, The Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, UK
| | | | - Yu-Mei Chang
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, UK
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5
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A Preliminary Study of the Influence of High Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) on Skin Surface Temperature and Longissimus Dorsi Muscle Tone Changes in Thoroughbred Racehorses with Back Pain. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13050794. [PMID: 36899651 PMCID: PMC10000047 DOI: 10.3390/ani13050794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The reason for undertaking this study was to investigate soft tissue response to high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) by measuring changes in skin surface temperature and longissimus dorsi muscle tone in the thoracolumbar back area in Thoroughbreds with back pain and diagnosed with and without Kissing Spines Syndrome (KSS). Thoroughbreds aged 3-4 years with clinically presented back pain underwent a radiological examination (to assess a lack or presence of KSS) and longissimus dorsi muscle palpation (to assess muscle tone and pain degree). The subjects were divided into two groups, those with KSS (n = 10) and those without KSS (n = 10). A single HILT treatment on the longissimus dorsi muscle, on the left side, was performed. Thermographic examination and palpation were repeated before and after HILT to assess changes in skin surface temperature and muscle pain response. In both groups, HILT caused a significant increase in skin surface temperature of 2.5 °C on average and a palpation score reduction of 1.5 degrees on average (p = 0.005 for both measurements), without differences in any outcome measures between the groups. Furthermore, the correlation between changes in the average skin surface temperature and the average palpation scores in horses with and without KSS were negative (rho = 0.071 and r = -0.180, respectively; p > 0.05). The results of the present study are encouraging, but further studies with larger samples, a longer follow-up period and comparisons with placebo control groups are needed to draw a more valid conclusion.
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6
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O'Sullivan S, McGowan CM, Junnila J, Hyytiäinen HK. The effect of manually facilitated flexion of the thoracic spine on the interspinous space among horses with impinging dorsal spinous processes of the thoracic vertebrae. Vet J 2022; 289:105909. [PMID: 36182065 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2022.105909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Impinging dorsal spinous processes (IDSP) are typically diagnosed and graded using radiography, during which the effect of the horses' thoracolumbar posture on the interspinous spaces is not commonly considered. Posture can be altered from a spontaneous, relatively extended, or lordotic, position by manual facilitation of thoracic flexion ('thoracic lift'). This study aimed to ascertain if the thoracic vertebral interspinous space distances were increased by using facilitated thoracic flexion to alter the posture in horses diagnosed with IDSP. Seven horses of mixed breed and sex, median age 9.1 years (interquartile range, 7.2-12.4 years), with a diagnosis of thoracic IDSP with no history of spinal surgery, were included in the study. Two sets of radiographs were obtained. The initial set was taken in the horses' spontaneous posture and the second in the manually facilitated flexed posture. Each image was anonymised allowing blinded measurement of the interspinous spaces. Analysis was performed using Hodges-Lehmann median differences estimates. An increase in the median interspinous space distance was achieved after manual facilitation of thoracic flexion at every thoracic intervertebral space (5th-18th thoracic [T] vertebra). The greatest median increase was seen between T7-T8 and T12-T13 (3.1 mm and 3.0 mm, respectively) whereas the lowest median increase was seen between T17-T18 (0.7 mm). In this study, thoracic interspinous space distances could be increased by using manual facilitation to alter the thoracic posture in horses with IDSP, which could affect grading and decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- S O'Sullivan
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Wirral CH64 7TE, UK
| | - C M McGowan
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Wirral CH64 7TE, UK
| | - J Junnila
- EstiMates OY, Tykistökatu 4, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - H K Hyytiäinen
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Viikintie 49 (P.O. Box 57), 00014 Helsinki, Finland.
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7
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Maldonado MD, Parkinson SD, Story MR, Haussler KK. The Effect of Chiropractic Treatment on Limb Lameness and Concurrent Axial Skeleton Pain and Dysfunction in Horses. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12202845. [PMID: 36290230 PMCID: PMC9597761 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chiropractic care is a common treatment modality used in equine practice to manage back pain and stiffness but has limited evidence for treating lameness. The objective of this blinded, controlled clinical trial was to evaluate the effect of chiropractic treatment on chronic lameness and concurrent axial skeleton pain and dysfunction. Two groups of horses with multiple limb lameness (polo) or isolated hind limb lameness (Quarter Horses) were enrolled. Outcome measures included subjective and objective measures of lameness, spinal pain and stiffness, epaxial muscle hypertonicity, and mechanical nociceptive thresholds collected on days 0, 14, and 28. Chiropractic treatment was applied on days 0, 7, 14, and 21. No treatment was applied to control horses. Data was analyzed by a mixed model fit separately for each response variable (p < 0.05) and was examined within each group of horses individually. Significant treatment effects were noted in subjective measures of hind limb and whole-body lameness scores and vertebral stiffness. Limited or inconsistent therapeutic effects were noted in objective lameness scores and other measures of axial skeleton pain and dysfunction. The lack of pathoanatomical diagnoses, multilimb lameness, and lack of validated outcome measures likely had negative impacts on the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikaela D. Maldonado
- Equine Orthopaedic Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Samantha D. Parkinson
- Department of Veterinary Preventative Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Melinda R. Story
- Equine Orthopaedic Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Kevin K. Haussler
- Equine Orthopaedic Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
- Correspondence:
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8
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Patterson Rosa L, Whitaker B, Allen K, Peters D, Buchanan B, McClure S, Honnas C, Buchanan C, Martin K, Lundquist E, Vierra M, Foster G, Brooks SA, Lafayette C. Genomic loci associated with performance limiting equine overriding spinous processes (kissing spines). Res Vet Sci 2022; 150:65-71. [PMID: 35803009 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2022.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Commonly known as "Kissing Spines" (KS), the pathological mechanisms underlying impingement and overriding of spinous processes (ORSPs) in horses are poorly understood. Thoroughbreds, Warmbloods, and stock-type breeds, including Paint Horses and Quarter Horses are at increased risk for developing clinical signs of KS. A total of 155 stock-type and Warmblood horses presented at collaborating veterinary clinics and hospitals were examined using a strict clinical and radiographical phenotyping scheme to grade each horse from 0 for unaffected controls to 4 for severe KS. Following genotyping with the Illumina Equine SNP70 array (Illumina, Inc.) a Genome Wide Association Study (GWAS) using 61,229 filtered individual Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) was performed to the KS grade phenotype. Two significantly associated SNPs (BIEC2-668062 and BIEC2-668013) on chromosome 25 defined a ~1.4 Gb candidate region containing approximately 17 coding genes (EquCab3) and 195 ENSEMBL annotated variants. Investigation of the best associated SNP (BIEC2-668062) on chr25 demonstrates a significant correlation with an increase in one KS grade, on average, per A allele in this population. A significant effect of breed group, age, height or sex was not observed in this population. These preliminary results demonstrate the potential for KS diagnosis and preventative measures for WB/ST individuals supported by increased genetic risk for more severe KS grade. We propose further research including other affected breeds and evaluating causative variants, as well as the effect of BIEC2-668062 in these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - B Whitaker
- Brazos Valley Equine Hospitals, Salado, TX 76571, USA
| | - K Allen
- Virginia Equine Imaging Center, The Plains, VA 20198, USA
| | - D Peters
- East-West Equine Sports, Lexington, KY 40583, USA
| | - B Buchanan
- Brazos Valley Equine Hospitals, Salado, TX 76571, USA
| | - S McClure
- Midwest Equine, Boone, IA 50036, USA
| | - C Honnas
- Texas Equine Hospital, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - C Buchanan
- Brazos Valley Equine Hospitals, Salado, TX 76571, USA
| | - K Martin
- Etalon, Inc, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | | | - M Vierra
- Etalon, Inc, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - G Foster
- Etalon, Inc, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - S A Brooks
- Department of Animal Science, UF Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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Biedrzycki AH, Elane GL. Three-Dimensional Modeling and In Silico Kinematic Evaluation of Interspinous Ligament Desmotomy in Horses. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:817300. [PMID: 35433641 PMCID: PMC9012442 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.817300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Interspinous ligament desmotomy (ISLD) has been shown to improve the comfort of horses diagnosed with overriding dorsal spinous processes (DSP), but its effects on spine mobility are unknown. Objective: To objectively quantify the change in mobility of thoracic vertebrae following ISLD using CT and medical modeling software. Study design: Prospective cadaveric manipulation of seven equine thoracolumbar spines collected from T11-L1. Methods: Spines were collected from T11-L1 with the musculature intact. Flexion and extension phases were achieved with a ratchet device calibrated to 2000N. Bone volume CT scans were performed in resting, flexion, and extension phase preoperatively. Interspinous ligament desmotomy was performed at each intervertebral space (n = 8), and bone volume CT imaging was repeated for each phase. The spinal sections were individually segmented and imported into medical software for kinematic evaluation. T11 of each phase were superimposed, the distance between each dorsal spinous process, the total length of the spine, and the maximal excursion of the first lumbar vertebra along with angular rotational information were recorded. Results: The mean distance between each dorsal spinous process increased by 5.6 ± 4.9 mm, representing a 24 ± 21% increase in mobility following ISLD. L1 dorsoventral excursion increased by 15.3 ± 11.9 mm, craniocaudal motion increased by 6.9 ± 6.5 mm representing a 47 ± 36.5% and 14.5 ± 13.7% increase, respectively. The rotation of L1 about the mediolateral axis increased by 6.5° post-ISLD. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance: ISLD increases dorsoventral, craniocaudal, and rotational motion of the equine spine. The computer modeling methodology used here could be used to evaluate multiplanar spinal kinematics between treatments.
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10
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Rodriguez A, Medina‐Serra R, Lynch N, Veres‐Nyeki K. Erector spinae plane block as part of a multimodal analgesic approach in an anaesthetised horse undergoing dorsal spinous process ostectomy and desmotomy. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/vrc2.345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alfonso Rodriguez
- Royal Veterinary College Hatfield UK
- Highcroft Veterinary Referrals Bristol UK
| | - Roger Medina‐Serra
- Royal Veterinary College Hatfield UK
- North Downs Specialist Referrals Bletchingley UK
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11
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Looijen MGP, Hanousek K, Maree JTM, Visser MC, Berner D. Inter- and intra-observer agreement for grading radiographs of thoracolumbar spinous processes in healthy horses during a pre-purchase examination. Vet Rec 2021; 190:e1065. [PMID: 34687227 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is wide variability in radiographic grading systems in thoracolumbar spinous processes in horses. The aim of this study was to determine the agreement of grading different parameters, and combinations of those, in radiographs of the spinous processes of the equine thoracolumbar spine in the scope of a pre-purchase examination. We hypothesized that agreement is variable and interpretation of these radiographs is difficult. METHODS Radiographs of the thoracolumbar spine of healthy horses (N = 100) were assessed by three observers. Spinous processes were separately graded for interspinous space width, modelling, radiopacities, radiolucencies and isolated opacities dorsally. Inter- and intra-observer agreement was assessed for individual and combinations of parameters. RESULTS Agreement (inter- and intra-observer) was good for the following parameters: interspinous space width, isolated opacities dorsally, beak-shaped formations craniodorsally and modelling cranioventrally. The agreement increased slightly for a sum of specific parameters such as radiopacities, modelling, dorsal abnormalities and related abnormalities involving increased opacity, modelling and osseous cyst-like lesions. Agreement for the total radiographic abnormalities per back was moderate. CONCLUSIONS Grading of thoracolumbar radiographs in horses without back pain showed good inter- and intra-observer agreement for specific parameters and these should be used in future grading of spinous processes. Limitations should be considered in pre-purchase examinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maty G P Looijen
- Equine Referral Hospital, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - Katherine Hanousek
- Equine Referral Hospital, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - Jacques T M Maree
- Evidensia Veterinair Centrum Honselersdijk, Honselersdijk, The Netherlands
| | - Margriet C Visser
- Evidensia Veterinair Centrum Honselersdijk, Honselersdijk, The Netherlands
| | - Dagmar Berner
- Equine Referral Hospital, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
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12
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Spoormakers TJP, Veraa S, Graat EAM, van Weeren PR, Brommer H. A comparative study of breed differences in the anatomical configuration of the equine vertebral column. J Anat 2021; 239:829-838. [PMID: 33991425 PMCID: PMC8450477 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of the equine thoracolumbar vertebral column in orthopaedic disorders is well recognized and diagnostic imaging becomes more feasible, but little is known about variations in the anatomical configuration within breeds. In this descriptive post-mortem study, anatomical variations in three widely differing breeds: Warmblood horses, Shetland ponies and semi-feral Konik horses are described. The caudal cervical (C), thoracic (T), lumbar (L) and sacral (S) regions of the vertebral column of 30 Warmblood horses, 29 Shetland ponies and 18 Konik horses were examined using computed tomography and visualized by volume rendering. Homologous/morphologic variations in the caudal cervical area were frequently seen in Warmblood horses (43%), which was significantly more than in the other breeds (p < 0.001). The as standard described equine formula of 18 T, 6 L and 5 S vertebrae was seen in 78% of Konik horses, but only in 53% Warmblood horses and 38% Shetland ponies, which was significantly different (p < 0.05). Overall, Shetland ponies showed a higher tendency of thoracoization, lumbarization and more variations in the number of vertebrae and pairs of ribs. Ankylosed intertransverse joints (ITJs) between transverse processes of the lumbar vertebrae were most common between the second last and last lumbar vertebra and prevalence was significantly higher in Shetland ponies (61%), than in Warmblood horses (38%) and Konik horses (7%) (p < 0.0001). Cranial to the second last lumbar vertebra there were fewer ITJs ankylosed (14%) in Warmblood horses (p < 0.0095), and this decrease in number of ankylosed ITJs was different compared to the change in ankylosed ITJs in Shetland ponies (p < 0.005). ITJs occurred asymmetrically in 15% (12/77) of the cases. A limitation of the study was that clinical data of the horses were only incompletely available, precluding any conclusions about the potential clinical implications of anatomical variations. Knowledge of variation in osseous anatomy of the equine thoracolumbar vertebral column is important for the interpretation of diagnostic imaging. To assess the functional importance and clinical relevance of this variation, follow-up studies are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tijn Jan Pieter Spoormakers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Equine Division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Stefanie Veraa
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Anna Maria Graat
- Department of Animal Sciences, Adaptation Physiology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul René van Weeren
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Equine Division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Harold Brommer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Equine Division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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13
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Derham AM, Schumacher J, O' Leary JM, Kelly G, Hahn CN. Implications of the neuroanatomy of the equine thoracolumbar vertebral column with regional anaesthesia and complications following desmotomy of the interspinous ligament. Equine Vet J 2021; 53:649-655. [PMID: 33336365 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Impinging/overriding dorsal spinous processes (DSPs) of the thoracolumbar vertebrae are a common cause of poor performance in horses. In the last five decades, numerous surgical treatments have been reported on, from transverse transection of the affected DSPs, and endoscopic resection of the affected DSPs, to transection of the interspinous ligament. Until recently, cosmetic outcomes have been reported as good to excellent in studies. However, a previously unreported complication of neurogenic atrophy of the contralateral epaxial muscle following desmotomy of the interspinous ligament has been recently reported. The authors hypothesised that this was because of a more lateral approach than previously described, resulting in the scissors being too far across midline and transecting a nerve in the region. Considering this finding, we have reviewed the literature on the neuroanatomy of the thoracolumbar region in the horse. Literature on the neuroanatomy of the horse is lacking when compared with that of humans and companion animals, with most of the work extrapolated from companion animals. Based on the current literature, we hypothesise that transection of an intermediate branch of the dorsal spinal nerve supplying the m. longissimus is potentially the cause of the post-operative neurogenic atrophy. The lack of detailed knowledge of the neural anatomy of the equine back has resulted in the role of local anaesthesia in localising pain in the equine back being poorly understood. The wide variation in techniques used for localising back pain may explain why some horses suffering from poor performance or an abnormal gait because of back pain improve to local anaesthesia of the back while others do not. This review article highlights a lack of anatomical knowledge regarding the equine thoracolumbar region in the literature despite diagnostic local anaesthesia, medication, and surgery in this area being relatively common.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Derham
- University College Dublin, University Veterinary Hospital, UCD, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - John M O' Leary
- University College Dublin, University Veterinary Hospital, UCD, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ger Kelly
- Fethard Equine Hospital, Tipperary, Ireland
| | - Caroline N Hahn
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, UK
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Accelerometric Changes before and after Capacitive Resistive Electric Transfer Therapy in Horses with Thoracolumbar Pain Compared to a SHAM Procedure. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122305. [PMID: 33291357 PMCID: PMC7762083 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Capacitive resistive electric transfer (CRET), a radiofrequency at 448 kHz, has been shown to result in increased muscle oxygenation and flexibility in the quadriceps muscle of human beings. In this study, 18 sport horses with thoracolumbar pain were divided into two homogenous groups: CRET (n = 9), subjected to four sessions of CRET during two consecutive weeks and SHAM (n = 9), subjected to the same sessions but with the device off. Clinical examination and accelerometry were made at the beginning and at the end of the study. A Mann-Whitney test and a Wilcoxon matched pair test were used to compare between SHAM and CRET groups and before and after the intervention, respectively. CRET horses showed a reduction of 1 degree in thoracolumbar pain (p = 0.002) and of 2 degrees in epaxial muscle pain (p = 0.03). SHAM horses had a reduction of 1 degree in thoracolumbar pain (p = 0.01). CRET horses presented increased dorsoventral power at walk and trot (p < 0.002), probably reflecting increased dorsoventral movement and flexibility. Such changes were not found in SHAM horses. No changes were found in the dorsoventral displacement of the center of gravity in either group. Our study demonstrated that sport horses with mild to moderate thoracolumbar pain could improve clinically and biomechanically after CRET therapy. Abstract Capacitive resistive electric transfer (CRET), a radiofrequency at 448 kHz, increases flexibility in quadricep muscles of human athletes. To assess whether CRET would result in clinical and biomechanical improvements in horses with thoracolumbar pain, 18 sport horses were divided into two groups: CRET (n = 9), subjected to four CRET sessions, during two consecutive weeks, and SHAM (n = 9), subjected to the same procedure with the device off. Clinical examination and accelerometry were performed before and after the four sessions. During the study, horses were in training and in active competition, and did not receive any other treatment. Mann-Whitney and a Wilcoxon matched pair tests were used to compare between the SHAM and CRET groups and before and after the intervention, respectively. CRET horses showed increased dorsoventral (p < 0.002), mediolateral and total power (p < 0.01) after the intervention, suggesting increased back flexibility. SHAM horses did not show any of these modifications after the intervention. No changes were found in the dorsoventral displacement of the gravity center in either group. Thoracolumbar pain decreased one degree after CRET (p = 0.002), and it did not change after SHAM. Epaxial muscle pain decreased two degrees after CRET (p = 0.03) and one degree after SHAM (p = 0.01). These results reflected that CRET therapy would increase back flexibility and decrease thoracolumbar and epaxial pain.
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Hardeman AM, Byström A, Roepstorff L, Swagemakers JH, van Weeren PR, Serra Bragança FM. Range of motion and between-measurement variation of spinal kinematics in sound horses at trot on the straight line and on the lunge. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0222822. [PMID: 32097432 PMCID: PMC7041811 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical assessment of spinal motion in horses is part of many routine clinical exams but remains highly subjective. A prerequisite for the quantification of spinal motion is the assessment of the expected normal range of motion and variability of back kinematics. The aim of this study was to objectively quantify spinal kinematics and between -measurement, -surface and -day variation in owner-sound horses. In an observational study, twelve owner-sound horses were trotted 12 times on four different paths (hard/soft straight line, soft lunge left and right). Measurements were divided over three days, with five repetitions on day one and two, and two repetitions on day three (recheck) which occurred 28-55 days later. Optical motion capture was used to collect kinematic data. Elements of the outcome were: 1) Ranges of Motion (ROM) with confidence intervals per path and surface, 2) a variability model to calculate between-measurement variation and test the effect of time, surface and path, 3) intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) to determine repeatability. ROM was lowest on the hard straight line. Cervical lateral bending was doubled on the left compared to the right lunge. Mean variation for the flexion-extension and lateral bending of the whole back were 0.8 and 1 degrees. Pelvic motion showed a variation of 1.0 (pitch), 0.7 (yaw) and 1.3 (roll) degrees. For these five parameters, a tendency for more variation on the hard surface and reduced variation with increased repetitions was observed. More variation was seen on the recheck (p<0.001). ICC values for pelvic rotations were between 0.76 and 0.93, for the whole back flexion-extension and lateral bending between 0.51 and 0.91. Between-horse variation was substantially higher than within-horse variation. In conclusion, ROM and variation in spinal biomechanics are horse-specific and small, necessitating individual analysis and making subjective and objective clinical assessment of spinal kinematics challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. M. Hardeman
- Tierklinik Luesche GmbH, Luesche, Germany
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - A. Byström
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - L. Roepstorff
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - P. R. van Weeren
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - F. M. Serra Bragança
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Generation of Domains for the Equine Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Outcome Score: Development by Expert Consensus. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10020203. [PMID: 31991716 PMCID: PMC7070405 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Within rehabilitation, measurements taken before, during and after treatments are used to judge patient progress and the effectiveness of prescribed treatments. To know which measurements to use for a given health condition, practitioners must have knowledge of what should be measured, which measurement tools are available and accurate, alongside what they intend to measure. Composite outcome measures (OMs) are tools which use grouped measurement tests to monitor patient progress; they have been tested for a variety of human and canine conditions but none have been designed or tested for use in physical rehabilitation in horses. This study asked leading equine veterinarians, physiotherapists and researchers which measures should be included in an OM for use in the rehabilitation of horses. Using a process to evaluate agreement, ten areas of measurement were included in the final model: lameness, pain at rest, pain during exercise, behaviour during exercise, muscular symmetry, performance/functional capacity, behaviour at rest, palpation, balance and proprioception. Existing reliable tests used to measure these areas were evaluated and potential new measures discussed and now should be taken forward to testing as a composite outcome score to see if they are effective in measuring effectiveness of treatment. Abstract Outcome measures (OMs) are a requirement of professional practice standards in human and canine physiotherapy practice for measurement of health status. Measures such as pain and functional capacity of specific regions are used to track treatment impact and can be used to develop optimal management strategies. To achieve comparable patient care in equine physiotherapy, OMs must be incorporated into practice; however, no reliable and valid OMs exist for equine rehabilitation. This study utilised the experience and opinion of a panel of experts working in the equine rehabilitation sphere to gain consensus on the core areas (domains) to be included in a model, to lead to an OM scale for horses undergoing rehabilitation. The Delphi method and content validity ratio testing was used to determine agreement with domains reaching the critical value required for inclusion. The expert panel agreed on ten domains to be included in the OM scale: lameness, pain at rest, pain during exercise, behaviour during exercise, muscular symmetry, performance/functional capacity, behaviour at rest, palpation, balance and proprioception. An OM with these domains would provide a holistic objective assessment tool which could be used by equine rehabilitation professionals in clinical practice.
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17
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Brown KA, Davidson EJ, Ortved K, Ross MW, Stefanovski D, Wulster KB, Levine DG. Long-term outcome and effect of diagnostic analgesia in horses undergoing interspinous ligament desmotomy for overriding dorsal spinous processes. Vet Surg 2020; 49:590-599. [PMID: 31916622 DOI: 10.1111/vsu.13377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report the long-term outcome of horses treated with interspinous ligament desmotomy (ISLD) for pain associated with overriding dorsal spinous processes (ORDSP) and determine the influence of preoperative diagnostic analgesia on long-term outcome. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective study. ANIMALS Eighteen horses. METHODS Data were collected from horses presenting for ISLD to the University of Pennsylvania New Bolton Center between January 2013 and May 2018. Follow-up of ≥3 months postsurgically was obtained from the owner, trainer, or referring veterinarian. Long-term improvement was compared between horses that improved with diagnostic analgesia presurgically and horses that did not undergo diagnostic analgesia presurgically by using a χ2 test. Univariate logistic regression was used to test associations between long-term improvement and independent variables. RESULTS Clinical signs had improved in 13 of 18 horses at long-term follow-up (median, 14.5 months; range, 3-57). Clinical signs improved in nine of 10 horses responding to diagnostic analgesia but only in four of eight horses that did not undergo diagnostic analgesia (χ2 [1], N = 18) = 3.55; P = .06). Although the likelihood of long-term improvement increased with prior diagnostic analgesia (odds ratio = 6.3; 95% confidence interval = 0.73, 55.0; P = .09), it did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSION A higher proportion of horses experienced long-term improvement in clinical signs after ISLD when horses responding to preoperative diagnostic analgesia were compared with horses that were not tested. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE This study provides some evidence to support the use of diagnostic analgesia in conjunction with clinical examination for identification of clinically relevant ORDSP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara A Brown
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
| | - Elizabeth J Davidson
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
| | - Kyla Ortved
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
| | - Michael W Ross
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
| | - Darko Stefanovski
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
| | | | - David G Levine
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
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Haussler KK, Manchon PT, Donnell JR, Frisbie DD. Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy and Chiropractic Care on Back Pain in Quarter Horses. J Equine Vet Sci 2019; 86:102891. [PMID: 32067657 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2019.102891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Low-level laser therapy has been used clinically to treat musculoskeletal pain; however, there is limited evidence available to support its use in treating back pain in horses. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of low-level laser therapy and chiropractic care in treating thoracolumbar pain in competitive western performance horses. The subjects included 61 Quarter Horses actively involved in national western performance competitions judged to have back pain. A randomized, clinical trial was conducted by assigning affected horses to either laser therapy, chiropractic, or combined laser and chiropractic treatment groups. Outcome parameters included a visual analog scale (VAS) of perceived back pain and dysfunction and detailed spinal examinations evaluating pain, muscle tone, and stiffness. Mechanical nociceptive thresholds were measured along the dorsal trunk and values were compared before and after treatment. Repeated measures with post-hoc analysis were used to assess treatment group differences. Low-level laser therapy, as applied in this study, produced significant reductions in back pain, epaxial muscle hypertonicity, and trunk stiffness. Combined laser therapy and chiropractic care produced similar reductions, with additional significant decreases in the severity of epaxial muscle hypertonicity and trunk stiffness. Chiropractic treatment by itself did not produce any significant changes in back pain, muscle hypertonicity, or trunk stiffness; however, there were improvements in trunk and pelvic flexion reflexes. The combination of laser therapy and chiropractic care seemed to provide additive effects in treating back pain and trunk stiffness that were not present with chiropractic treatment alone. The results of this study support the concept that a multimodal approach of laser therapy and chiropractic care is beneficial in treating back pain in horses involved in active competition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin K Haussler
- Gail Holmes Equine Orthopaedic Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO.
| | | | | | - David D Frisbie
- Gail Holmes Equine Orthopaedic Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO; Equine Sports Medicine, LLC, Pilot Point, TX
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19
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Trager LR, Funk RA, Clapp KS, Dahlgren LA, Werre SR, Hodgson DR, Pleasant RS. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy raises mechanical nociceptive threshold in horses with thoracolumbar pain. Equine Vet J 2019; 52:250-257. [PMID: 31393628 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a common treatment for horses with back pain, effects on mechanical nociceptive threshold (MNT) and multifidus muscle cross sectional area (CSA) in the spine are unknown. OBJECTIVES To evaluate effects of ESWT on spinal MNT and multifidus muscle CSA in horses with thoracolumbar pain. STUDY DESIGN Non-randomised trial. METHODS Thoracolumbar spines of 12 horses with thoracolumbar pain were radiographed to document existing pathology. Each horse received three ESWT treatments, 2 weeks apart (days 0, 14, 28). Palpation scores were documented (days 0, 45 and 65). Ultrasonographic CSA of left and right multifidus muscles was recorded at T12, T14, T16, T18, L3 and L5 (days 0, 45 and 65). MNT was measured at the same spinal sites every 7 days (day 0-56). RESULTS Mechanical nociceptive threshold in 10/12 horses (83%) was greater at each time point compared with day 0 (P < 0.05). Mechanical nociceptive threshold increased at all time points at six sites in 2/12 (16%), at five sites in 3/12 (25%), at four sites in 4/12 (33%) and at one site in 1/12 (8%; P < 0.05). Mechanical nociceptive threshold average per cent increase from day 0 to 56 was 64% for the thoracic region (T12-T18) and 29% for the lumbar region (L3-L5). There was no statistical difference in MNT from day 35 to 56 (P = 0.25). A bimodal analgesic trend was observed following ESWT. Degree of radiographic change was not associated with response to treatment. No significant change in multifidus muscle CSA was observed. MAIN LIMITATIONS Small study size and lack of control group. CONCLUSIONS Three treatments of ESWT 2 weeks apart raised MNT over a 56-day period in horses with back pain, but did not influence change in CSA of the multifidus muscle. While ESWT appears justifiable for analgesia, physiotherapeutic techniques may be necessary in conjunction for concurrent muscle rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- L R Trager
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - R A Funk
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - K S Clapp
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - L A Dahlgren
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - S R Werre
- Laboratory for Study Design and Statistical Analysis, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - D R Hodgson
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - R S Pleasant
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
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20
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Soroko M, Zaborski D, Dudek K, Yarnell K, Górniak W, Vardasca R. Evaluation of thermal pattern distributions in racehorse saddles using infrared thermography. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0221622. [PMID: 31449556 PMCID: PMC6709906 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of a rider's and saddle's mass on saddle thermal pattern distribution was evaluated using infrared thermography (IRT). Eighteen racehorses were ridden by four riders with their own saddle. Images of the saddle panels were captured at each of six thermographic examinations. On each image, six regions of interest (ROIs) were marked on the saddle panels. The mean temperature for each ROI was extracted. To evaluate the influence of load on saddle fit, 4 indicators were used: ΔTmax (difference between the mean temperature of the warmest and coolest ROI); standard deviation of the mean temperature of the six ROIs; right/left; bridging/rocking and front/back thermal pattern indicator. Incorrect saddle fit was found in 25 measurements (23.1%) with ΔTmax greater than 2°C. The relationships between rider and saddle fit as well as saddle fit and horse were significant (p<0.001). An average ΔTmax in rider A was significantly higher than in other riders (p<0.001). The right/left thermal pattern differed significantly from the optimal value for riders A and B; while the bridging/rocking thermal pattern differed significantly from this value for riders A, C and D (p<0.05). Front saddle thermal pattern was most frequent for rider A (41.5%), whereas back saddle thermal pattern was most frequent for rider C (85.7%). Measurement of the mean temperature in 6 ROIs on saddle panels after training was helpful in assessing the influence of rider and saddle mass on saddle fit. IRT offered a non-invasive, rapid and simple method for assessing load on thermal pattern distribution in race saddles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Soroko
- Department of Horse Breeding and Equestrian Studies, Institute of Animal Breeding, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Daniel Zaborski
- Department of Ruminants Science, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Dudek
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wroclaw University of Technology, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Kelly Yarnell
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom
| | - Wanda Górniak
- Department of Environmental Hygiene and Animal Welfare, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Ricardo Vardasca
- INEGI-LAETA, Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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21
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Prisk AJ, García-López JM. Long-term prognosis for return to athletic function after interspinous ligament desmotomy for treatment of impinging and overriding dorsal spinous processes in horses: 71 cases (2012-2017). Vet Surg 2019; 48:1278-1286. [PMID: 31332823 DOI: 10.1111/vsu.13298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the long-term return to performance of horses with impinging and/or overriding dorsal spinous processes (ORDSP) treated with interspinous ligament desmotomy (ISLD) and to determine the prognostic value of radiographic and scintigraphic grades. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective study. ANIMALS Seventy-one horses with ORDSP treated with ISLD. METHODS Medical records were reviewed for signalment, physical examination, gait evaluation, and number of interspinous spaces treated. Preoperative radiographic and scintigraphic images were evaluated with grading scales. Follow-up was obtained with a telephone questionnaire. Prognostic value of the number of affected interspinous spaces, radiographic grading, and scintigraphic grading was tested by using a χ2 test. RESULTS A median follow-up of 35 months (range, 8-64) was available for 56 horses. Fifty-one of 56 (91.1%) horses returned to some level of performance, with 27 of 51 (52.9%) horses achieving equivalent or higher level of performance. Achieving a lower level of performance was attributed to recurrent back pain in nine of 24 (37.5%) horses and to unassociated lameness in nine of 24 (37.5%) horses. Owners of 44 of 56 (78.6%) horses were satisfied with the postoperative performance level, and owners of 46 of 56 (82.1%) horses would recommend the procedure. None of the variables tested influenced the return to performance. CONCLUSION Interspinous ligament desmotomy allowed horses with ORDSP to return to some level of performance, although fewer returned to an equivalent or higher level of performance than had previously been reported. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Interspinous ligament desmotomy allows affected horses to return to some level of performance, regardless of the severity of radiographic and scintigraphic findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Prisk
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts
| | - José M García-López
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts
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22
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Derham AM, O'Leary JM, Connolly SE, Schumacher J, Kelly G. Performance comparison of 159 Thoroughbred racehorses and matched cohorts before and after desmotomy of the interspinous ligament. Vet J 2019; 249:16-23. [PMID: 31239160 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2019.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Racehorses may perform poorly because of impinging dorsal spinous processes (DSPs) of the thoracolumbar vertebrae. No study has looked objectively at the long-term outcome of racehorses undergoing desmotomy of the interspinous ligament as a treatment for horses with poor performance caused by impinging DSPs. The aim of this study was to examine objectively, by using pre-operative and post-operative racing records, the effectiveness of desmotomy of the interspinous ligament (DISL) in improving the performance of racehorses with impinging DSPs. Medical records of all horses undergoing desmotomy of one or more interspinous ligaments at a referral equine hospital, between February 2015 and September 2016, were reviewed. The study was confined to Thoroughbred racehorses with sufficient historical information and racetrack data to allow their racing performances be compared to that of matched controls. Matched controls were of the same age, sex, and racing type and were trained at the same time by the same trainer as those undergoing desmotomy. The time to follow-up was at least 12 months. Of the 6545 horses presented for poor performance or lameness during the study period, 236 horses (3.6%) underwent desmotomy of one or more interspinous ligaments, and of these, 159 met the inclusion criteria. Horses undergoing desmotomy had significantly better improvement in racing performance than did matched controls. Eight horses developed unilateral neurogenic atrophy of epaxial musculature. DISL between impinging DSPs can improve the performance of racehorses experiencing from poor performance caused by pain resulting from the impinging processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Derham
- University College Dublin, University Veterinary Hospital, UCD, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - J M O'Leary
- University College Dublin, University Veterinary Hospital, UCD, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - S E Connolly
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Institute of Public Health, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK
| | - J Schumacher
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - G Kelly
- Fethard Equine Hospital, Tipperary, Ireland
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23
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Taylor F, Tabor G, Williams J. Altered thoracolumbar position during application of craniocaudal spinal mobilisation in clinically sound leisure horses. COMPARATIVE EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.3920/cep170021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Manual therapy techniques are commonly used by physiotherapists in the management of back pain to restore a pain-free range of motion and function in humans. However, there is a lack of research to support the proposed kinematic effects of manual therapy in the horse. This study investigated the kinematic effects of craniocaudal spinal mobilisation (CCSM) on the thoracolumbar spine in asymptomatic leisure horses. Markers were fixed to T10, T13, T17, L1, L3, the highest point of the wither and the tuber sacrale on thirteen horses that were positioned squarely. The CCSM technique consisted of two parts: (1) carpal flexion of either forelimb to 90° to maintain the horse in a tripod position, and (2) the application of a cranial to caudal force to the forehand via the ipsilateral point of the shoulder. Movement changes of the thoracolumbar markers from baseline to maximum flexion when the CCSM was applied was recorded as ‘depth’ (mm) relative to a fixed line drawn from the tuber sacrale to the maximal point of the withers. The change in angle (°) of each marker relative to the same markers was also recorded. Data were collected via video and analysed with Dartfish™ software. Increases in maximum thoracolumbar angle (P<0.05) and reductions in thoracolumbar depth (P<0.05) were found with CCSM. These results indicate CCSM induced flexion in the thoracolumbar spine, supporting its potential to improve range of motion and function in horses. Further studies to understand whether the changes observed during CCSM translate to treatment of back pain are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Taylor
- Equestrian Performance Research and Knowledge Exchange Arena, University Centre Hartpury, Gloucestershire, GL19 3BE, United Kingdom
| | - G. Tabor
- Equestrian Performance Research and Knowledge Exchange Arena, University Centre Hartpury, Gloucestershire, GL19 3BE, United Kingdom
| | - J.M. Williams
- Equestrian Performance Research and Knowledge Exchange Arena, University Centre Hartpury, Gloucestershire, GL19 3BE, United Kingdom
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Sénèque E, Lesimple C, Morisset S, Hausberger M. Could posture reflect welfare state? A study using geometric morphometrics in riding school horses. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211852. [PMID: 30721258 PMCID: PMC6363216 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the fact that animal posture is known to reflect emotional state, the presence of chronic postures associated with poor welfare has not been investigated with an objective tool for measuring, quantifying and comparing postures. The use of morphometric geometrics (GM) to describe horse posture (profile of the dorsum) has shown to be an effective method of distinguishing populations that are known to differ in terms of welfare states. Here we investigated photographs of 85 riding school horses differing in terms of welfare state, in order to determine if a specific posture (modelled by GM) is associated with altered welfare. The welfare state was estimated with the prevalence of stereotypic or abnormal repetitive behaviours, depressed-like posture and the ear positions. ANOVA results show that horses with stereotypic or abnormal behaviour, and to a lesser degree horses with depressed-like postures, tend to have a flatter, or even hollow, dorsal profile, especially at the neck and croup levels. These altered profiles could represent an additional indicator of poor welfare, easy to use in the field or by owners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Sénèque
- Université de Rennes, UMR 6552 CNRS Ethologie Animale et Humaine,CNRS, Université de Caen-Normandie, Rennes, France
| | - Clémence Lesimple
- Université de Rennes, UMR 6552 CNRS Ethologie Animale et Humaine,CNRS, Université de Caen-Normandie, Rennes, France
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Martine Hausberger
- CNRS, UMR 6552 Ethologie animale et humaine, Université de Rennes, Université de Caen-Normandie, Caen, France
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Ehrle A, Ressel L, Ricci E, Merle R, Singer E. Histological examination of the interspinous ligament in horses with overriding spinous processes. Vet J 2019; 244:69-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2018.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- F. M. D. Henson
- Department of Veterinary Medicine; University of Cambridge; UK
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27
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Biggi M. What does increased radiopharmaceutical uptake in the spinous processes mean? EQUINE VET EDUC 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Biggi
- Equine Referral Hospital; Royal Veterinary College; Hatfield Hertfordshire UK
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van Zadelhoff C, Ehrle A, Merle R, Jahn W, Lischer C. Thoracic processi spinosi findings agree among subjective, semiquantitative, and modified semiquantitative scintigraphic image evaluation methods and partially agree with clinical findings in horses with and without thoracolumbar pain. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2018; 60:210-218. [PMID: 30394646 DOI: 10.1111/vru.12695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Impinging processi spinosi in the equine thoracic spine are a common cause of poor performance in the horse. A modified semiquantitative scintigraphic image analysis has been proposed for the evaluation of equine processi spinosi. This technique showed a high inter- and intraobserver agreement when compared to subjective and semiquantitative image analysis. The aim of this retrospective, method comparison study was to evaluate the agreement of the modified semiquantitative scintigraphic image assessment with previous methods of interpretation and to compare these scintigraphic evaluation techniques with radiographic and clinical findings. Two hundred twenty-three Warmblood horses that underwent scintigraphic, radiographic, and clinical examination of the thoracic spine were included in the study. Scintigraphic images were assessed using subjective, semiquantitative, and modified semiquantitative techniques. Radiographs were subjectively graded and horses were assigned to a group with or without thoracolumbar pain. Total radiographic and total scintigraphic grades were higher in horses with thoracolumbar pain (P < 0.05). Both the semiquantitative and the modified semiquantitative uptake ratios did not differ significantly in horses with or without thoracolumbar pain. The kappa agreement showed a substantial agreement between the modified semiquantitative scintigraphic and the semiquantitative scintigraphic evaluation techniques. The agreement between subjective scintigraphic and modified semiquantitative scintigraphic image evaluations was fair. There was a slight agreement between all scintigraphic techniques and radiographic findings. Limitations were the definition of thoracolumbar pain and the image analysis being restricted to the caudal thoracic processi spinosi. In conclusion, the modified semiquantitative scintigraphic image assessment obtained consistent results but did not perform better than previous evaluation methods. Further comparison to a defined diagnosis is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia van Zadelhoff
- Equine Clinic, Free University of Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany.,Pferdeklinik Bargteheide, 22941, Bargteheide, Germany.,University of Edinburgh, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Estate, Roslin, EH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Ehrle
- Equine Clinic, Free University of Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Roswitha Merle
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Free University of Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Werner Jahn
- Pferdeklinik Bargteheide, 22941, Bargteheide, Germany
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29
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García-López JM. Neck, Back, and Pelvic Pain in Sport Horses. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2018; 34:235-251. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
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Dyson S, Berger JM, Ellis AD, Mullard J. Behavioral observations and comparisons of nonlame horses and lame horses before and after resolution of lameness by diagnostic analgesia. J Vet Behav 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2018.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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31
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van Zadelhoff C, Ehrle A, Merle R, Jahn W, Lischer C. Semi-quantitative methods yield greater inter- and intraobserver agreement than subjective methods for interpreting 99m technetium-hydroxymethylene-diphosphonate uptake in equine thoracic processi spinosi. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2018; 59:469-476. [PMID: 29742312 DOI: 10.1111/vru.12621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Scintigraphy is a standard diagnostic method for evaluating horses with back pain due to suspected thoracic processus spinosus pathology. Lesion detection is based on subjective or semi-quantitative assessments of increased uptake. This retrospective, analytical study is aimed to compare semi-quantitative and subjective methods in the evaluation of scintigraphic images of the processi spinosi in the equine thoracic spine. Scintigraphic images of 20 Warmblood horses, presented for assessment of orthopedic conditions between 2014 and 2016, were included in the study. Randomized, blinded image evaluation was performed by 11 veterinarians using subjective and semi-quantitative methods. Subjective grading was performed for the analysis of red-green-blue and grayscale scintigraphic images, which were presented in full-size or as masked images. For the semi-quantitative assessment, observers placed regions of interest over each processus spinosus. The uptake ratio of each processus spinosus in comparison to a reference region of interest was determined. Subsequently, a modified semi-quantitative calculation was developed whereby only the highest counts-per-pixel for a specified number of pixels was processed. Inter- and intraobserver agreement was calculated using intraclass correlation coefficients. Inter- and intraobserver intraclass correlation coefficients were 41.65% and 71.39%, respectively, for the subjective image assessment. Additionally, a correlation between intraobserver agreement, experience, and grayscale images was identified. The inter- and intraobserver agreement was significantly increased when using semi-quantitative analysis (97.35% and 98.36%, respectively) or the modified semi-quantitative calculation (98.61% and 98.82%, respectively). The proposed modified semi-quantitative technique showed a higher inter- and intraobserver agreement when compared to other methods, which makes it a useful tool for the analysis of scintigraphic images. The association of the findings from this study with clinical and radiological examinations requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia van Zadelhoff
- Equine Clinic, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Pferdeklinik Bargteheide, Bargteheide, Germany
| | - Anna Ehrle
- Equine Clinic, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Roswitha Merle
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Werner Jahn
- Pferdeklinik Bargteheide, Bargteheide, Germany
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Quiney LE, Ireland JL, Dyson SJ. Evaluation of the diagnostic accuracy of skeletal scintigraphy in lame and poorly performing sports horses. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2018; 59:477-489. [DOI: 10.1111/vru.12626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Laura E. Quiney
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Newmarket Suffolk CB8 7UU UK
| | - Joanne L. Ireland
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Newmarket Suffolk CB8 7UU UK
| | - Sue J. Dyson
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Newmarket Suffolk CB8 7UU UK
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33
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Tabor G, Williams J. Equine Rehabilitation: A Review of Trunk and Hind Limb Muscle Activity and Exercise Selection. J Equine Vet Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2017.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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34
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Dyson S, Berger J, Ellis AD, Mullard J. Development of an ethogram for a pain scoring system in ridden horses and its application to determine the presence of musculoskeletal pain. J Vet Behav 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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35
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Greve L, Dyson S, Pfau T. Alterations in thoracolumbosacral movement when pain causing lameness has been improved by diagnostic analgesia. Vet J 2017; 224:55-63. [PMID: 28697877 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2016] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Lameness, thoracolumbosacral pain and reduced range of motion (ROM) often coexist; better understanding of their relationship is needed. The objectives were to determine if thoracolumbosacral movement of horses changes when pain causing lameness is improved by diagnostic analgesia. We hypothesised that reduction of lameness will increase ROM of the thoracolumbosacral region. Thirteen horses with different types of hind limb lameness were trotted in straight lines and lunged on a 10m diameter circle on left and right reins before and after lameness was subjectively substantially improved by diagnostic analgesia. Inertial sensor data were collected from the withers, thirteenth (T13) and eighteenth thoracic (T18) vertebrae, third lumbar (L3) vertebra, tubera sacrale (TS), left and right tubera coxae. ROM of flexion-extension, axial rotation, lateral bending, dorsoventral, lateral-lateral motion and vertical movement symmetry were quantified at each thoracolumbar site. Hiphike difference (HHD), maximum difference (MaxDiff) and minimum difference (MinDiff) for the pelvic sensors were measured. Percentage changes for before and after diagnostic analgesia were calculated; mean±standard deviation (SD) or median [interquartile range] were determined. Associations between the change in pelvic versus thoracolumbar movement symmetry after each local analgesic technique were tested. After resolution of lameness, HHD decreased by 7% [68%] (P=0.006). The MinDiff decreased significantly by 33% [61%] (P=0.01), 45±13% (P=0.005) and 52±23% (P=0.04), for TS, L3 and T18, respectively. There was significantly increased ROM in flexion-extension at T13, in axial rotation at T13, T18, L3 and in lateral-lateral ROM at L3. Thoracolumbosacral asymmetry and reduced ROM associated with lameness were both altered immediately by improvement in lameness using diagnostic analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Greve
- Centre for Equine Studies, Animal Health Trust,Lanwades Park, Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7UU, UK; Department of Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London,Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - S Dyson
- Centre for Equine Studies, Animal Health Trust,Lanwades Park, Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7UU, UK
| | - T Pfau
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London,Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK
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38
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Owen KR, Foote AK, Hinnigan GJ. Surgical resection of an osteoma of two thoracic spinous processes in a horse. EQUINE VET EDUC 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- K. R. Owen
- Oakhill Veterinary Centre; Preston Lancashire UK
| | - A. K. Foote
- Rossdales Laboratories; Newmarket Suffolk UK
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39
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Greve L, Pfau T, Dyson S. Thoracolumbar movement in sound horses trotting in straight lines in hand and on the lunge and the relationship with hind limb symmetry or asymmetry. Vet J 2017; 220:95-104. [PMID: 28190505 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Revised: 01/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Equine movement symmetry is changed when turning, which may induce alterations in thoracolumbosacral kinematics; however, this has not previously been investigated. Our objectives were to document thoracolumbar movement in subjectively sound horses comparing straight lines with circles on both reins and to relate these observations to the objectively determined symmetry/asymmetry of hindlimb gait. Fourteen non-lame horses were assessed prospectively in a non-random, cross-sectional survey. The horses were trotted in straight lines and lunged on both reins and inertial sensor data collected at landmarks: withers, T13 and T18, L3, tubera sacrale, and left and right tubera coxae. Data were processed using published methods; angular motion range of motion (ROM; flexion-extension, axial rotation, lateral bending) and translational ROM (dorsoventral and lateral) and symmetry within each stride were assessed. The dorsoventral movement of the back exhibited a sinusoidal pattern with two oscillations per stride. Circles induced greater asymmetry in dorsoventral movement within each stride (mean ± standard deviation, up to 9 ± 6%) compared with straight lines (up to 6 ± 6%). The greatest amplitude of dorsoventral movement (119 ± 14 mm in straight lines vs. 126 ± 20 mm in circles) occurred at T13. Circles induced greater flexion-extension ROM (>1.3°; P = 0.002), lateral bending (>16°; P <0.001), and lateral motion (>16 mm; P = 0.002) compared with straight lines. Circles induced a movement pattern similar to an inside hindlimb lameness, which was significantly associated with the circle-induced greater asymmetry of dorsoventral movement of the thoracolumbar region (P = 0.03). Moving in a circle induces measurable changes in thoracolumbar movement compared with moving in straight lines, associated with alterations in the hindlimb gait.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Greve
- Centre for Equine Studies, Animal Health Trust, Lanwades Park, Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7UU, UK; Department of Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK.
| | - T Pfau
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield AL9 7TA, UK
| | - S Dyson
- Centre for Equine Studies, Animal Health Trust, Lanwades Park, Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7UU, UK
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40
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Dyson S, Tranquille C, Walker V, Guire R, Fisher M, Murray R. A subjective descriptive study of the warm-up and turn to a fence, approach, take-off, suspension, landing and move-off in 10 showjumpers. EQUINE VET EDUC 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Dyson
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Lanwades Park; Newmarket Suffolk UK
| | - C. Tranquille
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Lanwades Park; Newmarket Suffolk UK
| | - V. Walker
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Lanwades Park; Newmarket Suffolk UK
| | - R. Guire
- Centaur Biomechanics; Warwickshire UK
| | - M. Fisher
- Woolcroft Equine Services Ltd.; Wisbech Cambridgeshire UK
| | - R. Murray
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Lanwades Park; Newmarket Suffolk UK
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41
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Thierry F, Bradley K, Warren-Smith C. Prevalence of spinous process impingement in thoracic vertebrae on radiographs of clinically-unaffected dogs. J Small Anim Pract 2016; 57:698-702. [PMID: 27781271 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Revised: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the prevalence of impinged spinous processes in asymptomatic dogs. METHODS One hundred and ninety lateral thoracic radiographs of asymptomatic dogs radiographed for reasons other than spinal pain, were retrospectively reviewed by two board-certified radiologists. Images were assessed for impinged spinous processes and graded for narrowing, sclerosis or remodelling of the spinous processes. RESULTS The prevalence of impinged spinous processes in unaffected dogs was 33·2%. Seventy-five of 79 (95%) lesions were located between T8 and T11. Impingement of the spinous processes was more common in older dogs and larger dogs displayed more frequent and more severe impingement of the spinous processes compared with smaller breeds. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Spinous process impingement is common in animals with no history of spinal pain, indicating that this radiographic finding should be interpreted with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Thierry
- The University of Edinburgh Easter Bush Campus, Small Animal Hospital, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG
| | - K Bradley
- The University of Bristol, Langford Veterinary Services, Bristol BS40 5DU
| | - C Warren-Smith
- The University of Bristol, Langford Veterinary Services, Bristol BS40 5DU
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42
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Dyson S. Evaluation of poor performance in competition horses: A musculoskeletal perspective. Part 2: Further investigation. EQUINE VET EDUC 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Dyson
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Newmarket Suffolk UK
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43
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Greve L, Murray R, Dyson S. Subjective analysis of exercise-induced changes in back dimensions of the horse: The influence of saddle-fit, rider skill and work quality. Vet J 2015; 206:39-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2015.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2014] [Revised: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Findley J, Singer E. Equine back disorders 1. Clinical presentation, investigation and diagnosis. IN PRACTICE 2015. [DOI: 10.1136/inp.h4854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Pilsworth R, Dyson S. Where does it hurt? Problems with interpretation of regional and intra-synovial diagnostic analgesia. EQUINE VET EDUC 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - S. Dyson
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Newmarket Suffolk UK
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46
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Barstow A, Dyson S. Clinical features and diagnosis of sacroiliac joint region pain in 296 horses: 2004-2014. EQUINE VET EDUC 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Barstow
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Lanwades Park, Kentford Newmarket Suffolk UK
| | - S. Dyson
- Centre for Equine Studies; Animal Health Trust; Lanwades Park, Kentford Newmarket Suffolk UK
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47
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A longitudinal study of back dimension changes over 1 year in sports horses. Vet J 2015; 203:65-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2014.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2014] [Revised: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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48
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Greve L, Dyson S. Saddle fit and management: An investigation of the association with equine thoracolumbar asymmetries, horse and rider health. Equine Vet J 2014; 47:415-21. [PMID: 24905610 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY No previous studies have investigated interrelationships between saddle fit/management, equine thoracolumbar asymmetries, rider and horse health. OBJECTIVES To assess associations between data obtained by clinical assessment and those provided by riders via a questionnaire. STUDY DESIGN Clinical assessment of a convenience sample of horses and riders compared with a Web-based questionnaire survey (n = 205). METHODS Horse thoracolumbar asymmetries at predetermined sites, the presence of lameness (in hand and/or ridden), saddle slip, saddle fit/management and rider straightness were assessed. Kappa statistics were used to assess the relationship between categorical clinical data and questionnaire data from riders. Spearman's correlation was used to investigate associations between outcomes from clinical assessment (horse, saddle and rider data) and information provided by riders. RESULTS There was a 40.5% (205 of 506) questionnaire response rate. Thirty horses (14.6%) had saddle slip, which was significantly associated with hindlimb lameness or gait abnormalities (P<0.001), but only 2 riders had considered a link between saddle slip and lameness. Rider back pain was common (38.5%) and associated with ill-fitting saddles (P = 0.03) and either a quadrupedally reduced cranial phase of the step or a stiff, stilted canter (P = 0.006). Well-fitted saddles were associated with frequent saddle fit checks (P = 0.004). Minor thoracolumbar asymmetries (P = 0.04) were negatively associated with ill-fitting saddles and positively associated with rider skill level (P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The interaction between the horse, saddle and rider is complex. Ill-fitting saddles and a stiff, stilted canter or quadrupedally reduced cranial phase of the step are associated with rider back pain. Equine back pain and minor thoracolumbar asymmetries are associated with ill-fitting saddles. Saddle fit should be checked more often than once yearly to lower the number of ill-fitting saddles. Riders, trainers and other professionals involved in equine care and performance need better education to recognise ill-fitting saddles, lameness, saddle slip and rider crookedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Greve
- Centre for Equine Studies, Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, UK
| | - S Dyson
- Centre for Equine Studies, Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, UK
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49
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Sporn A, Berner D, Winter K, Mageed M, Brehm W, Gerlach K. Quantitative evaluation of bone scintigraphy of the spinous processes of the equine thoracic spine at different times after administering 99m
Tc-hydroxymethylene-diphosphonate. Vet Rec 2014; 174:505. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.102104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Sporn
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Leipzig; Large Animal Clinic for Surgery; Leipzig Germany
| | - D. Berner
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Leipzig; Large Animal Clinic for Surgery; Leipzig Germany
| | - K. Winter
- University of Leipzig; Translational Centre for Regenerative Medicine (TRM); Leipzig Germany
| | - M. Mageed
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Leipzig; Large Animal Clinic for Surgery; Leipzig Germany
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Department of Surgery and Anaesthesiology Khartoum; University of Khartoum; Khartoum Sudan
| | - W. Brehm
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Leipzig; Large Animal Clinic for Surgery; Leipzig Germany
| | - K. Gerlach
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Leipzig; Large Animal Clinic for Surgery; Leipzig Germany
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50
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Biermann NM, Rindler N, Buchner HHF. The Effect of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields on Back Pain in Polo Ponies Evaluated by Pressure Algometry and Flexion Testing—A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Trial. J Equine Vet Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2013.10.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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