Lag screw fixation is used to compress the fracture and re-establish fetlock and pastern joint congruity. The prognosis for sagittal fractures is good if they can be compressed early with lag screws. Most commonly associated with racing and more prevalent in trotters and pacers. The fracture is commonly apical but sesamoid body and basilar fractures do occur. Lameness with swelling of the suspensory branch in the affected leg.
Joint effusion is present and the fetlock is painful on flexion.
Radiographs are used to make the diagnosis. The suspensory ligament is of injured concurrently and should be examined by ultrasound. An apical and basilar sesamoid fracture. The prognosis for removal of apical sesamoid fragments is good. Unless there is absolute perfect reduction of basilar and apical sesamoid fragments the prognosis is poor for athletic use.