Synovial injections are commonly performed in equine practice and involve placing a needle into a joint, bursa or tendon sheath. Your veterinarian may recommend this procedure to investigate lameness, treat inflammation or degeneration, collect a sample of synovial fluid, treat or check for infection, or inject contrast material to assist with diagnostic imaging.

Information

Please read the below information before completing the consent form

Your veterinarian will take appropriate steps to perform the procedure in a controlled and clean manner, including careful preparation of the injection site and correct handling of equipment, to reduce the risk of complications.

Risks and possible complications

Although synovial injections are routinely carried out with few complications, it is important that you understand the potential risks before consenting to the procedure.

1. Infection – Whenever a needle is inserted into a synovial space, there is a small risk of introducing bacteria and causing an infection. The published risk is approximately 0.04% of synovial injections. Signs may include heat, swelling, pain and severe lameness. A synovial infection can cause cartilage damage and arthritis and usually requires urgent hospital treatment, which may include surgery or lavage. The practice will not be responsible for the cost of treating this recognised complication.

2. Inflammatory reaction or “flare” – Some horses may develop a sterile inflammatory reaction after injection, causing pain, heat, swelling and lameness. These signs can look similar to infection, and further investigation, such as synovial fluid sampling, may be required to distinguish between the two. Treatment may include rest, pain relief and, in more severe cases, lavage.

3. Laminitis – There is a recognised, although very low, risk of laminitis associated with corticosteroid use. Laminitis can be serious and difficult to treat. Extra caution is required in horses or ponies with a history of laminitis, those that are overweight, or those currently showing signs of laminitis. Your veterinarian will consider the most appropriate medication and dose for your horse.

4. Joint or cartilage degeneration – Repeated or long-term use of some corticosteroids may contribute to cartilage deterioration or further joint degeneration. This risk will be weighed against the potential benefit of reducing inflammation and improving comfort.

5. Needle breakage – If the horse moves suddenly during the procedure, there is a rare risk that the needle could break and may require surgical removal.

In rare cases, complications such as synovial infection or laminitis can be severe and may result in the horse requiring euthanasia on humane grounds.

Client acknowledgement and consent

I confirm that I am over 18 and I have read and understood the above information and have discussed this with my vet, including the reasons for the procedure, the potential benefits, and the recognised risks and complications. I understand that, although every reasonable precaution will be taken, complications can still occur. I consent to the procedure being carried out on my horse. Additionally, please be aware of the associated costs for treating any complications that may arise after a joint injection procedure and that these will be the sole responsibility of the animal owner.