Partial Fixation of the Patella Ligament

Oh, bummer!  So that was his issue with going downhill, huh?  My eventing gelding used to get stuck in his stifle area occasionally, not sure it was the same condition and I remember they gave him a shot of some hormones or something?  Sounds weird, huh?
 
Must be similar to people who wear those knee strap things to keep everything in place.  What causes it, genetics, injury?
 
I guess arthritis is somewhat workable where this condition doesn't seem to be so I guess maybe you go with the lesser of 2 evils.
 
Let us know what you decide.

I know stifle surgery is fairly "common" and seems to be no big deal.  HOWEVER once it's done, it's done.  If it were me I'd be looking into any possible alternative and trying that just to give it a chance to be corrected or improved without the surgery.  There are some people who are not vets who are trained in stuff vets are not trained in.  If it's non invasive and won't make things worse I think it would be worth a try.  Your horse is young.  That's a plus!

Not an uncommon problem with Standardbred who put a lot of stress and strain on young joints.  I would advise a good race horse vet or a really good Standardbred trainer.  The older trainers have a lot of remedies that actually work and that most vets know nothing about.

If he was mine and there was a place that I felt confident in I would do the surgery.  I know of a couple of horss that have had this done with good results.  Your horse is young enough to have good results.
 
The joint is already compromised so the chances of arthritis are already there. 

Dana and all,

Yes....this was the problem with the downhill issue.....YOU REMEMBERED!!!!

I had the vet (Dr. Cox) who is the best leg doctor around dis area, who diagnosed him with this issue and suggested we might do the surgery if he didn't improve, but I think it's got worse over the last few months.

I had actually sensed this problem after the second or third day after purchase, but didn't really know what this was and had emailed the sellers a few times asking about previous injuries or anything they had noticed which might have helped me figure it out....but got no answers to clarify.  Believe it or not, the sellers have a 30 day guarantee policy that I am still discussing with them after having the horse 10 months now.  We have been back and forth since the third month and have shown them my email concerns since that 2nd day.....but so far all I have been able to achieve with them is that they are discussing the situation and vet report with their local vet to determine if this was a existing condition.  Who knows what will happen, but I have become very attached to this horse (SURPRISE!) and not sure what I will end up doing if they do finally agree to exchange.

I am pretty sure my insurance (Great American Insurance) will approve the surgery, so cost isn't going to be a factor......it's just hard to make this type of decision for the horse.....but I do sense his discomfort when we are on rides.....

It's a catch 22......you are supposed to keep him exercised, but I am trying not to work him too hard.  Lot's of uphill climbs.....but that always leads to downhills too which are the problem.

I also think Surgery might be the best way to go and the most practical....but I will make that decision after the sellers finally get back to me. 

By the way.....Sellers are Brooks Quarter Horses up in Jamestown, CA.  Old time QH cow horse breeders/sellers/trainers etc.....old school people.  I hope we can all come to terms.

I can tell everyone that my horse is soooo sweet and has a great mind.  He just wants to be in my back pocket, and will stand still (ground tie) all day!  You can lope him on the trails free - handed, and he won't chase after horses if they run off....won't crowd a horse if you are riding in a line......etc......just a really nice horse.....with a major problem

Thanks all,

Eric

Glad you have a competent vet.  Great American is my ins. company too.  And I can NOT say enough good about them.  Keep every receipt you can, makes it easier to get reimbursed.
Since you are attached to the horse you might accept a partial return on your purchase price or ask them to cover any piece the ins. does not.  Just an idea.
 
 
 
 

Thanks Tanya,
 
I agree 100% about the insurance company.....they are awesome!  Unfortunately, Karen Monroe isn't working with them anymore and she was my rep.....and awesome!  I am sure it will still be fine, but she was great. 
 
I also do have a great vet....even though she wouldn't be doing the surgery, she recommended a certain Doctor who specializes in these types of surgery.  I haven't found much information on the recovery time etc....but I think it's 2-3 months.  I think for a nearly 5 year old horse...that's nothing in the big picture.
 
Vet clinic tomorrow at the barn........looking forward to seeing the horses and talk with the vet.
 
Have a good night all
 
Eric

Eric, keep us posted!  I hope the best for your boy!  And a speedy recovery!