Correlation of magnetic resonance images with anatomic features of the equine tarsus.
OBJECTIVE
To correlate anatomic features of the equine tarsus identified in plastinated sections with images obtained via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).


METHODS
4 horses.


METHODS
MRI (1.5-Tesla magnet) of the tarsus was performed on the pelvic limbs of 4 clinically normal horses following euthanasia. After imaging, tarsocrural joint spaces and vasculature were injected with colored latex. Sagittal and transverse sections of the tarsi were plastinated to facilitate interpretation of MR images.


RESULTS
Relevant anatomic structures were identified and labeled on the plastinated tissue slices and corresponding MR images. Results indicated high correlations between MRI findings and those of plastinated sections.


CONCLUSIONS
The data obtained provided certain reference standards for normal anatomic structure sizes and positions in the equine tarsus. This information may aid future physiologic or clinical studies of this joint.
Latorre
Rafael
R
Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30071 Murcia, Spain.
Arencibia
Alberto
A
Gil
Francisco
F
Rivero
Miguel
M
Henry
Robert W
RW
Ramírez
Gregorio
G
Váquez
Jose M
JM
D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D006736:Horses / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000662:veterinary*; D008297:Male; D013643:Tarsus, Animal / Q000033:anatomy & histology*