Growth Plate Closure in Icelandic Horses
Author Information
Author(s): Eric Strand, Linn Camilla Braathen, Mia C Hellsten, Lisel Huse-Olsen, Sigridur Bjornsdottir
Primary Institution: Equine Teaching Hospital, Norwegian School of Veterinary Science
Hypothesis
How does the skeletal growth period of the Icelandic horse compare to that of larger horse breeds?
Conclusion
Icelandic horses have similar radiographic closure times for their limb growth plates as larger horse breeds, suggesting a slower growth rate.
Supporting Evidence
- Most growth plates were fully closed by approximately three years of age.
- No signs of osteochondrosis were found in the examined horses.
- The growth plates in the digits closed first, while those in the distal radius and stifle closed last.
Takeaway
Icelandic horses grow up to be adults by about three years old, which is when they can start training.
Methodology
Radiographic examination of growth plates in 64 young Icelandic horses, measuring closure times and serum alkaline phosphatase levels.
Potential Biases
The sample was haphazardly selected, which may introduce bias.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design may not capture all variations in growth rates over time.
Participant Demographics
64 Icelandic horses, including 38 mares, 15 stallions, and 11 geldings, aged 47 days to 52 months.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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