Barbaro undergoes surgery to replace plate, screws

Kentucky Derby (G1) winner BARBARO (Dynaformer) underwent surgery late

Saturday to replace the plate and many of the screws that had been inserted into

his injured hind leg on May 21. The dark bay colt is also being treated for an

infection in the affected area.

"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," Dr. Dean Richardson explained.

"We also applied a longer cast on that leg for additional support."

Richardson added that the new developments are potentially serious. The main

fracture is healing well, but the pastern joint that the doctors are attempting

to fuse is the main concern. The 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," Richardson said.

"He is receiving pain medication, antibiotics and other supportive care."

Barbaro continues to be monitored closely in the Intensive Care Unit of the

George D. Widener Hospital at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton

Center. His owners, Roy and Gretchen Jackson, and trainer Michael Matz continue

to visit him at least twice daily.