Ultrasonographic Anatomy of the Fetlock in Draught Horses

Objective- To describe the normal sonographic images of the soft tissues of the dorsal and palmar aspects of the fetlock region in the draught horses.   Design- Descriptive study.   Animals- Five clinically and radiographically normal draught male horses were used during this study.   Procedures- Horses 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 Conclusion- The 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 Relevance- This study is a useful value in the diagnosis of fetlock lameness under clinical conditions.