The change in third metacarpal mid-diaphyseal radiographic dimensions in Thoroughbred foals through growth.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Changes in the third metacarpal (MC3) mid-diaphyseal dimensions were measured radiographically in young Thoroughbred racehorses through race training and found to be associated with a higher risk of shin soreness. However, it is still unclear whether such negative MC3 morphologies are set congenitally or through development.

Objective

To quantify MC3 bone dimensional changes through growth.

Study design

Longitudinal.

Method

Twenty privately owned Thoroughbred foals were radiographed bimonthly from birth to 14 months of age. Four linear MC3 parameters (proximodistal MC3 length, mid-diaphyseal dorsal and palmar cortical bone thickness, and dorsopalmar medullary width) were measured using ImageJ on lateromedial radiographs. Associations with age (growth

SUBMITTER: Son JK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12508270 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature