An anatomic study of the calcaneal bursae in the horse.
OBJECTIVE
To establish an injection site for the gastrocnemius calcaneal bursa (GCB), to identify communication patterns between the calcaneal bursae, to estimate the proximal and distal extents of the intertendinous calcaneal bursa (ICB) and to identify variations from previous anatomic descriptions.


METHODS
Descriptive anatomic study.


METHODS
Cadaveric equine hindlimbs (n=18) from 9 adult horses.


METHODS
Communication between the ICB and GCB was determined in 18 cadaveric hindlimbs by injection of a latex mixture, followed by examination of sequential sagittal sections and documentation of the distribution of the latex mixture and communication sites. The distal and proximal extents of the ICB and subcutaneous calcaneal bursa (SCB), relative to the tuber calcanei (TC) were recorded.


RESULTS
Communication between the ICB and the GCB was confirmed on the medial and lateral aspect in 100% and 50% of limbs, respectively. Communication between the SCB and the ICB, and therefore the GCB, was identified in 39% of limbs. Plantar reflections of the ICB existed in 33% of limbs. Mean extent of the ICB relative to the TC was 7.0 cm distally and 9.6 cm proximally. The SCB often occupies a more distal position than previously reported.


CONCLUSIONS
The ICB and the GCB should be considered 1 synovial structure with 2 communicating compartments.


CONCLUSIONS
The GCB may be an alternative site for synoviocentesis when there is septic calcaneal bursitis. Improved knowledge of calcaneal bursae anatomy may aid in diagnosis and treatment of lesions involving these structures.
Post
Evelyn M
EM
Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, University of Liverpool, Veterinary Field Station, Leahurst, Neston, South Wirral CH64 7TE, UK. evpost@sympatico.ca
Singer
Ellen R
ER
Clegg
Peter D
PD
D000818:Animals; D002061:Bursa, Synovial / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D002062:Bursitis / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary; D002102:Cadaver; D002111:Calcaneus / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D006614:Hindlimb; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000628:therapy; D006736:Horses / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D013643:Tarsus, Animal