Desmotomy of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon in the forelimb of 24 horses 2 years and older.
Academic Article
Overview
Research
Identity
Additional Document Info
Other
View All
Overview
abstract
OBJECTIVE: To report outcome after desmotomy of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon (ALDDFT) in adult horses (2 years) for treatment of desmitis of the ALDDFT or flexural deformity of the distal interphalangeal joint (FDDIJ). STUDY DESIGN: Case series. ANIMALS: Horses with desmitis of the ALDDFT (n=9) and FDDIJ (n=15). METHODS: Records (April 1996-July 2008) of 24 adult horses (mean age, 6.7 years) that had ALDDFT desmotomy were reviewed. Follow-up data was obtained 12-120 months after desmotomy. RESULTS: Outcome was available for 22 horses; 18 (82%; 6 of 8 horses with desmitis of the ALDDFT and 12 of 14 with FDDIJ) returned to their intended use within 6-24 months (mean, 12 months). CONCLUSION: In mature horses, ALDDFT desmotomy resulted in successful return to intended use in most horses with ALDDFT desmitis (75%) or FDDIJ (86%).