Ultrasound-Guided Transection of the Accessory Ligament of the Deep Digital Flexor Muscle (Distal Check Ligament Desmotomy) in Horses |
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| Authors: | N A WHITE II DVM MS Diplomate ACVS |
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| Institution: | Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Leesburg, VA. |
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| Abstract: | Transection of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor muscle (distal check ligament desmotomy) was completed in 44 horses using an ultrasound-guided technique. The technique used real-time ultrasound with a 7.5 MHz transducer to observe the dissection and isolation of the check ligament through a 1 to 1.5 cm incision and to check for complete transection of the check ligament. The technique was effective in correcting flexural deformity of the distal inter-phalangeal joint and the metacarpophalangeal joint in all but three horses. Check ligament desmotomy at a young age (median, 6 months) resulted in more horses with normal foot conformation than when surgery was completed at an older age (median, 12 months). Age at surgery had no effect on subsequent appearance of the surgical site. Based on the authors experience this technique reduced immediate postoperative wound morbidity. |
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