303.225.0960Recently-published research highlights novel applications for Biovision Veterinary Endoscopy’s 1.2mm O.D. NeedleView® arthroscope in the diagnosis and treatment of equine sinus and fetlock problems.
The use of the NeedleView® arthroscope has been documented in research and in practice since 2014 to allow equine practitioners to perform conscious, standing exams of the stifle.1,2 Ensuing research has proven its value in the evaluation of the navicular bursa as well.3 Two recently-published studies have found novel applications.
- Paranasal sinus: A 2018 study4 explored the use of Biovision’s NeedleView® camera in conjunction with a 2mm flexible endoscope for standing, conscious evaluation of the paranasal sinus. The conclusion: “Minimally invasive sinoscopy was readily performed without relevant complications in standing horses. A thorough evaluation of most sinus structures was obtained only using the frontal and the rostral maxillary portals.”
- Fetlock: A 2019 prospective clinical study2 described the technique, experience and outcome of standing, conscious arthroscopic removal of dorsal osteochondral fragmentation of the metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joint using Biovision’s 1.2-mm NeedleView® arthroscope. The conclusion: “All fragments were successfully removed and needle arthroscopy allowed a thorough evaluation of the dorsal aspect of the joint. The technique offers an alternative for standing fetlock arthroscopy for surgeons concerned about equipment damage or portability.”
NeedleView Equine Clinical Research References
1 Frisbie DD, Barrett MF, McIlwraith CW, and Ullmer J. Diagnostic stifle joint arthroscopy using a needle arthroscope in standing horses. Vet Surg. 2014 Jan;43(1):12-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1532-950X.2013.12068.x. Epub 2013 Oct 31.
2 Adrian AM, Barrett MF, Werpy NM, et al. A comparison of arthroscopy to ultrasonography for identification of pathology of the equine stifle. Equine Vet J. 2015 Nov 18. doi: 10.1111/evj.12541. [Epub ahead of print]
3 Mahlmann K, Koch C, and Bodo G. Diagnostic endoscopy of the navicular bursa using a needle endoscope by direct or transthecal approach: a comparative cadaver study. Vet Surg. 2015;44:816-824.
4 Pouyet M and Bonilla A. Validation of a 2-mm videoendoscope for the evaluation of the paranasal sinuses with a minimally invasive technique. Vet Surg. 2019;1-11.
5 Bonilla, Alvaro G. Standing Needle Arthroscopy of the Metacarpophalangeal and Metatarsophalangeal Joint for Removal of Dorsal Osteochondral Fragmentation in 21 Horses. Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 2019, doi:10.1055/s-0039-1688984.