Joint Sepsis Referrals

Joint sepsis is a potentially life threatening emergency for the horse. Wounds in the vicinity of a synovial structure warrant immediate investigation and surgical attention. Chronic unresolved joint sepsis can be fatal. Early exploration, diagnosis and appropriate treatment of synovial sepsis can be very rewarding.

• Consider referring wounds over synovial structures. Assume the worst.
• Consider referring acute lameness, swelling related to synovial structures.
• All penetrating foot wounds in the frog region need to be considered as being possibly serious.
• Refer joint ill in foals. Often these foals require umbilical resection,CBC or other diagnostics.
• Do not over medicate and mask sepsis with painkillers.
• Do not delay referring possible sepsis!!!

Sholder sepsis in a foal