Ultrasonographic Anatomy of the Fetlock in Draught Horses

ObjectiveTo describe the normal sonographic images of the soft tissues of the dorsal and palmar aspects of the fetlock region in the draught horses. DesignDescriptive study. AnimalsFive clinically and radiographically normal draught male horses were used during this study. ProceduresHorses were examined both radiographic and ultrasound ante mortem and post mortem. Based on the proximal sesamoid bones the fetlock region was divided into three zones. Zone I (PSB1) located 4 cm above the sesamoid bone. Zone II (PSB II) located at the level of the sesamoid bones. Zone III (PSBIII) located distal to the sesamoid bones. Measurements of tendon and ligament structures for the three zones were determined by means of electronic calipers. Cross transverse sections for the structures of the three zones were identified. Results and ConclusionThe fetlock joint is surrounded by soft and hard tissue structures. The gross anatomical, radiographic and Ultrasonographic images were studied. The ultrasound images of the palmar and dorsal aspects were identified and reviewed. The echogenic patterns of the three zones were evaluated. This study provides a detailed knowledge on the normal ultrasound anatomy and measurements of the tendon and ligaments in the three zones. Clinical RelevanceThis study is a useful value in the diagnosis of fetlock lameness under clinical conditions. Key WordsUltrasonography, Fetlock, Draught Horse. ∗ Corresponding author: MB.Mostafa, PhD Department of Veterinary Surgery Anaestheology and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt. E-mail address: [email protected]