Ethyl Alcohol Injection for fusing fetlock

[Derby Lyn Farms]

I did a search and didn't really find what I was looking for on Coth. In searching the internet on articles about ringbone, ethyl alcohol injections where mention to help fuse the joint. It is still experimental. I know there is more success in the hock joints with this, but anyone have any experience with the fetlock joint and ethyl alcohol injections? From what I understand, it is not as successful b/c of all the movement in this joint.

[animaldoc]

Are you talking about the pastern? I don't know of any way to successfully fuse a fetlock with an injection....only with an arthrodiesis.

[Derby Lyn Farms]

Thanks animaldoc. Just curious. I don't think going into the pastern area is an option at this point b/c of an infection I have to deal with first. The joint is already trying to fuse. Just looking at all my options. I have another post with the mares x-rays already on this forum.

[foggybok]

It works well in the hock because it is a low motion joint. In the fetlock, there is too much motion, so without stabilization you wouldn't be able to fuse it. Are you considering fusing the fetlock?

[Bacchus]

I've heard of this. It was recommended we try it in my gelding with ringbone, but we haven't done it yet. Don't know if my vet is comfortable with it. I bought a bottle of Everclear to use if we ever get around to it. (Seriously.)

We did try injecting him with a steroid about two years ago, and it did nothing.

This horse is pasture sound and has had the ringbone for four-plus years. I think it's from an old injury. Corta-flex pellets help him a lot.