Stresses Associated with Subchondral Bone Cysts - A Finite Element Analysis on an Extended Stifle Joint

Subchondral cystic lesions (SCL), sometimes referred to as subchondral bone cysts (SBC) or subchondral lucencies, occur in the medial femoral condyle (MFC) of horses and can cause lameness. They are more common in horses ≤ 2 years of age, but can occur in older horses. The causes of SCL are not well understood, however, trauma and osteochondrosis are most commonly implicated. Radiographs of young horses that develop SCLs indicate a progression from sclerosis to MFC flattening, and then a defect (SCL) that enlarges. Treatments are directed at reducing local inflammation and promoting bone and cartilage healing, with approximately 50-75% of horses becoming sound enough for work. However, bone healing after surgery is inconsistent, occurring in