Author(s): "Dr. Greg BonenClark, DVM, Diplomate ACVS of BonenClark Equine located in Ocala, FL. Images courtesy of Ferguson & Hammock Equine Hospital in Ocala, FL. Laser therapy performed by The Sanctuary, Ocala, FL USA."
SIgnalment: 3-year-old thoroughbred graded stakes horse.
Diagnostics and Exam Findings: Dorsal cortical stress fracture of left front cannon bone on July 1st.
Laser Treatment: Delivered a total of 2,600 Joules administered at 10 watts to the entire affected area & nearby healthy tissue margins.
Frequency of Treatment: Daily for three days, then tapering to every other day for two weeks, and then twice weekly treatments for another two weeks for a total of sixteen treatments.
Other Treatment: Stall rest for one month, then an exercise program was initiated and increased for the next four months as the horse returned to full training and was returned to the track.
Comments: The initial recheck radiograph (four weeks post-presentation) showed a significant improvement in the appearance of the fracture site. These injuries typically require three months to heal.
