Late Saturday, July 8, Dean Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, chief of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center, replaced the plate and many of the screws that had been inserted into Barbaro’s injured hind leg on May 21. “Barbaro had developed some discomfort and a consistently elevated temperature so we believed it was in his best interest to remove the hardware and thoroughly clean the site of the infection,” said Richardson. “We also applied a longer cast on that leg for additional support.”

While the main fracture is healing well, the pastern joint that doctors are attempting to fuse continues to be the area of concern. This joint was stabilized with new implants and a fresh bone graft.

“The recovery process from anesthesia took longer with this surgery, but Barbaro is now back in his stall in the intensive care unit,” said Richardson. “He is receiving pain medication, antibiotics and other supportive care.”

Barbaro continues to be monitored closely in the intensive care unit of New Bolton Center’s George D. Widener Hospital. Richardson emphasized that the complications are potentially serious. Both Barbaro’s owners and trainer continue to visit him at least twice daily