Effects of superior check desmotomy on flexor tendon and suspensory ligament strain in equine cadaver limbs.
OBJECTIVE
To measure the effects of transection of the accessory ligament of the superficial digital flexor (SDF) muscle (superior check desmotomy) on flexor tendon and suspensory ligament (SL) strain in vitro.


METHODS
In vitro experimental biomechanical investigation. ANIMALS USED: Ten equine cadaver forelimbs.


METHODS
The effects of superior check desmotomy were determined using equine cadaver forelimbs secured in a servocontrolled hydraulic testing machine. Strain sensors were used to measure strain on the superficial and deep digital flexor tendons and SL, and a goniometer was used to measure joint angles when the limb was loaded at 890 N and 3,115 N before desmotomy, and at 3,115 N after desmotomy.


RESULTS
Superior check desmotomy was associated with significantly increased strains on the SDF tendon and SL, and significant alterations in the angles of the metacarpophalangeal and carpal joints.


CONCLUSIONS
The superior check ligament has an important role in maintaining joint angles and load distribution in the forelimb. Lengthening of the SDF musculotendinous unit after superior check desmotomy may be associated with increased strain on the SL.


CONCLUSIONS
Transection of the accessory ligament of the SDF muscle may predispose horses to SL desmitis postoperatively.
Alexander
G R
GR
School of Veterinary Clinical Science, Murdoch University, Western Australia.
Gibson
K T
KT
Day
R E
RE
Robertson
I D
ID
D000818:Animals; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002102:Cadaver; D005552:Forelimb; D006736:Horses / Q000502:physiology* / Q000601:surgery; D008023:Ligaments, Articular / Q000502:physiology* / Q000601:surgery; D013710:Tendons / Q000502:physiology* / Q000601:surgery