An anatomic study of the calcaneal bursae in the horse.

The research article focuses on studying the anatomical structures of the calcaneal bursae in horses, determining communication patterns among them, establishing an injection site for a particular bursa and evaluating the extent of another. It serves to enhance our present knowledge about calcaneal bursae anatomy in horses and assist in diagnosing and treating related issues more effectively.

Study Overview

• The study carried out was a descriptive anatomical study. Used in the research were 18 cadaveric hindlimbs from 9 adult horses.

Method of Study

• The communication between the InterTendinous Calcaneal Bursa (ICB) and Gastrocnemius Calcaneal Bursa (GCB) was examined in these limbs through an injection of a latex mixture.
• The examination process comprised evaluation of sequential sagittal sections while documenting the spread of the latex mixture and points of communication.
• The proximal and distal extents of the ICB and SubCutaneous Calcaneal Bursa (SCB), relative to the Tuber Calcanei (TC) were also noted.

Results

• A 100% communication between the ICB and the GCB was confirmed from the medial side, while a 50% communication was noted from the lateral side.
• Communication between the SCB and the ICB and, by extension, the GCB was seen in 39% of limbs.
• Plantar reflections of the ICB were found in 33% of limbs. The mean extent of the ICB relative to the TC was 7.0 cm distally and 9.6 cm proximally.
• Contrary to prior assumptions, the SCB was reported to often occupy a more distal position.

Conclusions

• The research concludes that the ICB and GCB should be seen as one synovial structure comprising two communicating compartments.
• For conditions like septic calcaneal bursitis, the GCB could be an alternative location for performing synoviocentesis.
• These new findings and insights about the calcaneal bursae anatomy in horses can significantly aid in diagnosing and treating related ailments more effectively.