Many struggle with treating foot wounds, mainly because of a misunderstanding or unfamiliarity with the specific characteristics of integument, its replacement pattern and the relationship with underlying tissues. While there are important morphologic differences between the integument of the hoof and the skin, knowledge of the general principals of would healing and the typical complications that may arise can be helpful when dealing with hoof wounds. Maarten Oosterlinck, a University of Ghent specialist veterinarian and a 2027 International Equine Veterinarian Hall of Fame inductee, provides an overview of the four stages of wound healing, the differences between lesions of the hoof wall and the sole, as well as the specific challenges in managing hoof wounds. 

You’ll Learn: A practical understanding of healing hoof wounds and how to apply treatment strategies that promote recovery and preserve hoof function. 

Maarten Oosterlinck, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ECVSMR, Dipl. ECVS, graduated from Ghent University in 2004 and has gained extensive experience in equine orthopaedics and surgery at the busy department of surgery and anaesthesiology of the faculty of veterinary medicine of Ghent University. Combining clinical work with research, Maarten earned his PhD on the use of pressure plate analysis for the objective evaluation of equine locomotion in 2011. He went on to perform a residency and in 2014, he passed the qualifying exam of the European College of Veterinary Surgeons. In 2018, he became diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. Maarten has published on a variety of equine orthopaedic and surgical topics in peer-reviewed journals, and he lectures regularly at international courses and conferences. He is a scientific editor for The Veterinary Journal and a member of the editorial board of Equine Veterinary Education. In his current position as a postdoctoral staff member, Maarten’s daily clinical work is focused on equine orthopaedics, gait analysis, podiatry and surgery, while enjoying clinically orientated research, and lecturing and consulting about various topics in his field of expertise.