Major Update Tim Woolley Site: Barbaro's Cast Removed Today

Update 991: New Bolton's update on today's cast: Barbaro's cast removed today:

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro's right hind leg cast was removed today, according to his medical team. "Barbaro was placed under general anesthesia for the cast removal," said Dr. Dean W. Richardson, Chief of Surgery. "In addition, his foot was trimmed and a new shoe glued on. A padded bandage with plastic and fiberglass splints was placed on his lower limb for support."

Barbaro's lower right hind leg had been in a cast since surgery at Penn's George D. Widener Hospital following his accident at the Preakness on May 20. "He had a perfect pool recovery and immediately stood; he walked easily back to his stall," said Dr. Richardson. "He used all of his legs quite well."

Barbaro's left hind foot, which had laminitis, was also fully evaluated while he was under anesthesia. "There are no signs of new problems with that foot, but the hoof needs several more months of growth before we will know how much foot structure and function will be recovered," said Dr. Richardson.

The next update will be posted on Tuesday, November 14, unless there is a significant change in Barbaro's condition.

Update 990: I just spoke to Mrs. Jackson. She told me that Barbaro had his cast replaced today (I did not ask what with) and all was well with the process (pool recovery etc.) She was pretty upbeat about it. I assume more details will be forthcoming in the New Bolton release tomorrow!

Interview with Michael Matz: click on link!

Barbaro Enters the Home Stretch of Recovery