Summary Large colon volvulus (LCV), left dorsal displacement (LDDLC) and right dorsal displacement of the large colon (RDDLC) are among the most clinically important large colon disorders in horses, yet their pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. Existing explanatory frameworks emphasise gas accumulation, altered motility and management changes, but do not adequately account for the consistent overrepresentation of tall, large‐framed horses and the comparative rarity of these conditions in ponies. The objective of this article is to present a morphometric hypothesis in which deep‐trunk conformation defined as a relatively tall, narrow trunk with a large vertical distance from withers to sternum and a correspondingly elongated abdominal cavity provides the structural predisposition for large colon displacement. We propose that in deep‐bodied horses the dorsal and ventral colons hold a more vertical position within the abdomen and that gravity acting on a long, heavy, partially mobile colon generates traction on its mesenteric attachments that can initiate displacement depending on anatomical modifiers. In broodmares, the gravid uterus further accentuates the deep‐bodied profile in late gestation, amplifying risk of LCV while potentially providing a transient physical barrier against LDDLC. The hypothesis is supported by epidemiological data, comparative evidence from canine gastric dilatation‐volvulus and the low incidence of colon displacement in round‐bodied ponies. If confirmed by prospective morphometric studies, this model would justify incorporating body shape into risk stratification and into decision‐making for preventative surgical intervention to prevent large colon displacement.
Summary Cardiac leiomyosarcoma is an exceptionally rare neoplasm in equids. The case report by Carroll et al. (2026; Equine Veterinary Education , 38, e686) in the October issue describes a mule that suffered fatal cardiovascular collapse during recovery, with post‐mortem examination revealing a cardiac leiomyosarcoma and severe pericardial effusion. This unusual case provides a basis for discussing broader aspects of equine anaesthesia, including the limited evidence for additional pre‐anaesthetic investigations in horses, the potential for unpredictable cardiovascular complications and the particularly hazardous nature of the recovery period.
Summary Background The ultrasonographic diagnosis and prognosis for curb in Thoroughbred racehorses are poorly documented. Objectives To describe the clinical and ultrasonographic features, treatments and outcomes of curb in a Thoroughbred flat racing population. Study design Retrospective case series study. Methods Horses with ultrasonographic evaluation of curb were retrieved from medical records at the Hong Kong Jockey Club from 2006 to 2025. Data analysed included signalment, clinical presentations, ultrasonographic findings, treatments, rehabilitation period and performance indices. Results Thirty‐one hindlimbs of 26 horses were affected; plantar fasciitis was present in all affected hindlimbs, superficial digital flexor tendonitis in two hindlimbs (8%) and long plantar desmitis in one hindlimb (4%). The left ( n = 16), right ( n = 5) or both hindlimbs ( n = 5) were affected. Treatments included a variable period of rest and variable use of systemic and local anti‐inflammatory medication, cold therapies, radial pressure wave therapy, focused shockwave therapy, class IV therapeutic laser and therapeutic ultrasound. Horses resumed trotting, galloping and racing within a median of 19, 54.5 and 126 days, respectively. The prognosis for return to racing without re‐injury was good with 88.5% of horses that underwent a rehabilitation programme racing after injury. There was a low recurrence rate, with curb‐related lameness recurring in two horses after resuming trotting exercise necessitating more time walking. Main limitations Limited horse number, variable quality, completeness of stored ultrasonographic images and clinical notes and multiple factors that can affect racing outcomes. Conclusions Periligamentous and peritendinous plantar fasciitis is the predominant ultrasound finding in flat‐racing Thoroughbred horses with curb‐like swellings in the current population. Involvement of the underlying superficial digital flexor tendon and long plantar ligament is unusual. The prognosis for return to racing is favourable following adequate rest and rehabilitation.
Summary Background Subchondral lucencies (SCLs), also referred to as subchondral cystic lesions or osseous cyst‐like lesions, are associated with lameness and reduced performance in horses. Management options are diverse, evidence is heterogeneous and direct comparisons are limited; current therapeutic preferences are poorly described. Objectives To describe therapeutic preferences, perceived outcomes and definitions of treatment success among respondents managing equine SCLs. Study design Cross‐sectional international online survey. Methods A 23‐item Google Forms questionnaire was circulated through professional equine surgery networks. Responses included in the analysis were received between 8 May 2025 and 18 May 2026, including one pilot response. Of 44 submissions, four reported no SCL caseload and were routed to the end; 40 provided quantitative therapeutic data analysed descriptively. Reporting followed CHERRIES. Results Respondents represented Europe, North America, South America and Oceania; most had more than 10 years of professional experience. Screw placement alone was frequently selected across all anatomical locations, and screw placement combined with an orthobiologic adjunct was also reported. Corticosteroids, arthroscopic procedures, conservative management and transcortical approaches were selected with variable frequency. The most common definition of treatment success was return to training with continued sound athletic performance. Main limitations The sample was small, self‐selected and based on reported preferences rather than verified clinical outcomes. An exact response rate could not be calculated, and the findings should not be generalised beyond the respondent group. Conclusions Among respondents, therapeutic preferences varied across anatomical locations. Screw placement was frequently selected, and functional recovery was commonly considered an important outcome criterion. These exploratory findings support prospective comparative studies using standardised lesion classification, predefined follow‐up intervals and clinically meaningful outcome measures.
Summary Orthopaedic injury associated with the metacarpophalangeal (fetlock) joint is a common cause of both morbidity and mortality within the Thoroughbred racing industry. Despite this, conditions such as ‘Tropical Joint Syndrome’ are rarely documented in the published literature. The condition has been characterised by the progressive development of an extra‐articular exostosis over the dorsolateral aspect of the proximal phalanx (P1). Insidious in nature, the exostosis in advanced cases can progress to involve the entirety of the dorsal proximal aspect of P1 and the dorsal distal aspect of the third metacarpal bone, potentially resulting in career‐ending pathology. The paucity of published work on tropical joint syndrome makes it difficult to provide an accurate prognosis in cases of a fractured exostosis and the suitability to continue in high intensity exercise such as racing. Computed tomography (CT) is becoming more widely used and, given its benefits compared with digital radiography, it seems logical to utilise CT to monitor the progression of tropical joint syndrome. This case report aimed to investigate the effects of this syndrome on athletic performance, offering a novel insight into the pathological evolution of this syndrome with progressive increases in exercise intensity monitored by sequential CT studies. The limited number of reported cases makes analytical studies difficult to perform. This case report offers arguments for further advanced imaging; suggestions of potential aetiologies; the impact of resulting sequelae on future athletic function and a discussion of the merit of more invasive treatment protocols. Alongside an evaluation of the potential values and additional information provided when utilising sequential CT studies to guide clinical decision‐making in these cases.
