Abstract
Desmitis of the oblique distal sesamoidean ligaments (ODSL) is caused by hyperextension of the metacarpophalangeal/meta-tarsophalangeal joint and has been described as a significant cause of lameness in racehorses. In this study, three Thoroughbred racehorses (age range: 3–6 years) were diagnosed with desmitis of the forelimb ODSL using standing low-field magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI). Radiography and ultrasonography were inconclusive with regard to a definitive diagnosis. For all horses, the sMRI characteristics included increased signal intensity within the medial ODSL on T1-weighted gradient echo, T2-weighted fast spin echo and short tau inversion recovery fast spin echo images, which use a fat suppression technique. Effusion of the digital flexor tendon sheath was also clearly visible on sMRI. Following rest and controlled exercise for roughly 3 months, two horses successfully returned to racing within 5 months. Our findings support the use of sMRI for diagnosing ODSL injuries in Thoroughbred racehorses.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 1475-1480 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Journal of Veterinary Medical Science |
Volume | 78 |
Issue number | 9 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 1 2016 |
Keywords
- Desmitis
- Magnetic resonance imaging
- Oblique distal sesamoidean ligament
- Racehorse
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- veterinary(all)