Ultrasound Guided Inject of Stifle Cysts

Bone cysts in the stifle are a common cause of hindlimb lameness in all types of horses. Treatment options include rest, medication of the joint or surgical debridement of the cyst under a general anaesthetic.

However, over the last few years, we have been seeing encouraging results with treatment by ultrasound-guided injection. Either with sedation in the standing horse or under a short general anaesthetic, a needle can be guided directly into the cyst lining before injecting anti-inflammatory steroids. The technique has the advantage of being a quick, relatively non-invasive procedure with a rapid recovery time and minimal complications. Results can often be seen within 4 weeks of injection and over half of the horses treated at Rossdales have returned to work with no further procedures necessary.

For further information please contact our Diagnostic Centre team by email, or by telephone on 01638 577754.