An important aspect of raising foals is observing leg growth. During these early formative months, such abnormalities as “knock knees” or “club feet” can develop, ultimately affecting the prospect’s athletic ability and appearance. Early detection and prompt treatment of these and other deformities can be rewarding. Treatment depends on the severity of the deformity, the age of the foal, and the location of the angle of deviation. The major priority is to correct the problem while the foal is still growing.

Periosteal stripping supposedly releases the tension of the periosteum on the outer or concave side of the bone, growth on the outside part of the growth plate is able to catch up with the growth on the inside of the growth plate, resulting in spontaneous correction of a knock kneed foal.

Transphyseal Bridge using screws and wires is used for severe cases. With this surgery a screw is placed on the metaphysic and a screw is place on the epiphysis. Wire is then connected to each screw thus retarding growth on the inside, but allowing if to grow on the outside. Implants must be removed when the legs are straight anywhere from one to three weeks postoperatively.

Distal Check Ligament Desmotomy

Arthroscopy – bone fragment, OCD