Dorsal subluxation of the proximal interphalangeal joint in the pelvic limb of three horses.
In horses, dorsal subluxation of the proximal interphalangeal joint in the pelvic limb, which realigned when weight was applied to the limb, improved following surgery. Improvement was observed, if not immediately, at least within two weeks after treatment. The severity and duration of the condition appear to be important considerations in predicting the time necessary for resolution of the condition following surgery. Treatment consisted of surgical resection of a small segment of the medial head of the deep digital flexor tendon in the pelvic limb. The section removed was positioned distal to the tarsus, at the level prior to the tendon joining the main portion of the deep digital flexor tendon. Previously, a surgical treatment was described in which a portion of the accessory ligament (distal check ligament) of the deep digital flexor muscle was resected. Because the medial head is much stronger than the accessory ligament, resection of the tendon of the medial head provides more release of tension to allow stretching of the deep digital flexor muscle tendon.
Shiroma
J T
JT
College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331-4802.
Engel
H N
HN
Wagner
P C
PC
Watrous
B J
BJ
D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D006614:Hindlimb / Q000293:injuries*; D006736:Horses / Q000293:injuries*; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000662:veterinary*; D007596:Joints / Q000293:injuries*; D008297:Male