Horses which returned to racing after surgical repair of sesamoid fractures did not show any significant difference in longevity, according to a recent study published in the Equine Veterinary Journal.
This study demonstrated that just over 50 percent of the horses which underwent surgical management of sesamoid fractures between 2008 and 2022 were able to return to racing. However, there were significant differences in post-surgical outcomes related to the location of the fracture and the type of surgery required.
Horses with fractures of the hind sesamoids were more likely to race post-operatively compared to those with fractures of the sesamoid on a forelimb. Sesamoid fractures occurring in the mid-body of the bone were less likely to return to racing, compared to other fracture locations (apical, in the upper third of the bone; abaxial, to the side of the bone; and basal, to the bottom third of the bone).
Surgical management via fragment removal was associated with improved outcomes, compared to those fractures requiring internal fixation.
Of the horses which returned to racing after surgical management of sesamoid fractures, racing longevity was not negatively affected compared to control subjects. However, racing success (determined by placing first, second, or third) was reduced compared with pre-operative performance.
This story was originally reported by Paulick Report on Sep 22, 2025, where it first appeared in the Horse Care section. Add Paulick Report as a Preferred Source by clicking here.