Arthroscopically accessible anatomy of the tarsal collateral ligaments in the horse.

This research provides an intricate description of the arthroscopically accessible parts of the tarsal collateral ligaments in horse joints. By using horse cadavers and silicone modeling, the study identifies which parts of these ligaments can be reached using arthroscope and instrument portals. The findings can be of valuable use for veterinarians and researchers in the field.

Research Methodology

• The study was conducted as a descriptive analysis using 24 equine hind limbs from horse cadavers with no tarsal disease.
• A set of two pairs of these tarsal joints were used to create silicone models of the tarsocrural joint and perform dissections of the tarsal collateral ligaments (CLs).
• Another ten pairs of joints underwent an arthroscopic exploration, where the accessible parts of the tarsal CLs were marked using an arthroscopic hook knife.
• Post exploration, these limbs were dissected and the marked positions were then allocated to specific parts of the CLs.

Research Findings

• The results showed that ipsilateral arthroscope and instrument portals were utilized in each pouch of the tarsocrural joint.
• To further specify, via the plantaromedial pouch, different parts of the medial CL and the long medial CL were reached.
• While the plantarolateral pouch allowed access to manipulate the deep short lateral CL and the long lateral CL.
• When dorsally situated, the arthroscopy via the dorsomedial pouch allowed access to the deep short medial CL. The dorsolateral joint recess gave access to different parts of the short lateral CL.

Conclusions

• The study concluded that limited parts of the tarsal CLs can be observed or manipulated arthroscopically in normal equine tarsocrural joints.
• This knowledge can be helpful in identifying the areas that are reachable for possible treatments or further research involving these ligaments.