Joint Injection Consent

Joint Injection Consent Information

Please note:

While joint injections are commonly done with few complications, it is important to acknowledge that there are still potential risks involved. Being informed about these risks is crucial when considering treatment options for your horse.

The risks include:

1. Infection – Whenever a needle is inserted into a joint, there is a possibility of introducing bacteria and causing an infection. However, by handling the needle properly, using the correct technique, and preparing the limb thoroughly, the risk of infection can be minimized. That is why it’s crucial to prepare all joints thoroughly before an injection. Unfortunately, even with proper preparation, there is still a chance of infection occurring after a joint injection. Infections can be identified by symptoms such as heat and swelling around the joint, as well as severe lameness in most cases. It’s important to note that joint infections can lead to cartilage damage and arthritis, which is why immediate action is necessary. Treating joint infections can be challenging, but the best results are achieved when they are addressed early. Therefore, if you notice any of the aforementioned signs in your horse following an injection, it is essential to contact your GEM Equine Veterinarian without delay.
2. Adverse Reaction – When administering any medication to a horse, there is always a possibility of an inappropriate immune system response. Adverse reactions can manifest in various ways, but when they occur in the joints, they often display similar symptoms to an infection, such as heat, swelling, and lameness. This particular reaction is known as a “flare,” and unlike an infection, it does not involve bacteria and is sterile. It is vital to differentiate between a joint infection and a flare (through synovial fluid sampling) because the treatment strategies for these two conditions differ. In most instances, horses experiencing a synovial flare are treated with rest and pain relief medication, although more severe cases may necessitate joint lavage.
3. Joint Degradation – The long-term usage of specific corticosteroids may lead to the deterioration of cartilage. The degree and speed of degeneration vary depending on the joint, the initial amount of damage, and the unique characteristics of the horse. However, one must carefully consider this risk in comparison to the potential advantages of reducing inflammation within the joint.
4. Laminitis – Although corticosteroids are beneficial for treating joint disease, there have been concerns about their potential to trigger laminitis or founder. Recent studies, however, have not supported this claim. Nevertheless, it is generally recommended to administer the minimum effective dose of corticosteroids. Extra caution is advised for animals with a history of laminitis or those that are overweight, typically involving lower doses of short-acting corticosteroids. Animals currently suffering from laminitis should not be treated with corticosteroids.
5. Please  v that there is the potential for needle to break off if the horse moves abruptly and would then require surgical removal.