Retrospective study of subchondral sclerosis and lucency in the third carpal bone of Standardbred trotters.

The aim was to investigate radiographic findings of subchondral sclerosis and subchondral lucency in the dorsoproximal-dorsodistal (DPr-DDi) projection of the third carpal bone (C3) in relation to clinical appearance and to prognosis for racing. In a retrospective study, case records of 89 Standardbred trotters diagnosed with traumatic carpitis confirmed with intra-articular anaesthesia were examined. Records included data on degree of lameness at presentation and after flexion tests and a radiographic examination of the carpus, including a DPr-DDi projection of the C3. Subchondral lucency was found significantly to influence the degree of lameness at presentation and the time to start but did not significantly affect the chance of racing within 30 months post examination. In the present material no significant relationship between degree of sclerosis and lameness or prognosis for racing within 30 months was found, but the low number of C3 with severe sclerosis limited conclusions about that group.