Arthroscopic approach and intra-articular anatomy of the plantar pouch of the equine tarsocrural joint.

The research paper discusses a procedure for examining the internal structures of the plantar pouch within the tarsocrural joint of horses, using an arthroscopic approach through portals on two sides of the joint.

Methodology

• The authors conducted an arthroscopic examination of the plantar pouch in the tarsocrural joint through two different portals – the plantaromedial and plantarolateral aspects of the joint. The tarsocrural joint, also known as the hock joint, is located in the lower part of a horse’s hind limb.

Findings

• By flexing and extending the tarsus (joint), the researchers could observe different parts of the joint structure from either portal. These included the proximal and plantar aspects of the lateral and medial trochlear ridges, the trochlear groove, the caudal aspect of the distal tibia, and the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) in its sheath.
• From a plantarolateral portal, they could view the plantar talocalcaneal ligament and the plantar aspect of the lateral malleolus.
• However, they were not able to view the back part of the medial malleolus from a plantaromedial portal, regardless of the joint’s flexion or extension. In some instances, they could still observe the back part of the lateral malleolus.
• The dorsolateral and dorsomedial aspects of the plantar pouch were best seen from a portal on the same side (ipsilateral) of the joint.
• If they inserted an instrument in a portal opposite to either of the arthroscope portals, the scientists had access to most parts of the joint, except the abaxial surface of the trochlear ridge that was opposite to the instrument.

Implications

• The research could improve understanding of horse joint anatomy and the treatment of specific joint disorders in veterinary practice.
• The detailed findings and procedure of this study could provide guidelines for veterinarians conducting arthroscopic examinations on horses, allowing them to predict where key structures can be seen based on the location of the portal.