Nuchal crest avulsion fracture in 2 horses : a cause of headshaking

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Authors

Voigt, A.
Saulez, Montague Newton
Donnellan, C.M.B. (Cynthia Mary Bridget)

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

South African Veterinary Association

Abstract

The medical records of 2 Thoroughbred horses that developed headshaking after blunt trauma to the occipital region are reviewed. The history, signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic methods, diagnosis and treatment were recorded in each case. Both horses displayed headshaking, while one horse repeatedly lifted its upper lip and pawed excessively at the ground. In both horses, diagnostic imaging of the occipital region revealed avulsion fragments of the nuchal crest and a nuchal desmitis in association with hyperfibrinogenaemia. The presence of an avulsion fragment of the nuchal crest with associated nuchal desmitis should be considered in horses presenting with headshaking and may respond favourably to conservative therapy.

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Keywords

Equine, Headshaking, Nuchal crest desmitis, Trauma

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Citation

Voigt, A, Saulez, MN & Donnellan, CM 2009, 'Nuchal crest avulsion fracture in 2 horses : a cause of headshaking', Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, vol. 80, no. 2, pp. 111-113. [http://www.journals.co.za/ej/ejour_savet.html]