Objective: To report arthroscopic debridement and lavage of a septic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in a horse.
Design: Clinical case report.
Animals: A 12-year-old Thoroughbred mare.
Methods: Arthroscopic investigation of the dorsal joint pouch of the right TMJ was made through a stab incision into the dorsocaudal compartment. Mechanized resection of synovium and fibrinous debris combined with copious lavage, and intra-articular and systemic antibiotic administration was used to treat the septic TMJ.
Results: Arthroscopic debridement and lavage of the TMJ, in combination with intra-articular and systemic antimicrobials resulted in resolution of sepsis. Eight months post-operatively, there was no clinical evidence of degenerative joint disease or ankylosis of the TMJ.
Conclusion: TMJ sepsis is rare in horses, however, standard arthroscopic equipment can be used in the management of this condition with minimal complications.
Clinical relevance: Arthroscopic debridement and lavage should be considered for evaluation and initial treatment of TMJ sepsis in horses.