Lateral Approach for Endoscopic Removal of Solitary Osteochondromas from the Distal Radial Metaphysis in Three Horses

A lateral approach to the carpal sheath was used for endoscopic removal of osteochondromas from the distal aspect of the radius in 3 horses. Previously osteochondromas have been removed through an incision into the carpal sheath; however, endoscopy is less invasive, requires less surgery and convalescence time, provides better cosmetic results, is associated with a lower risk of infection, and allows better examination of structures within the sheath. A medial approach for endoscopic removal has been described previously; however, the lateral approach was advantageous, because it avoided the median vein, artery, and nerve and because the sheath was more easily distended from the lateral approach. Therefore, this approach may be an alternative for removal of osteochondromas from the distal aspect of the radius in horses.