Clinical and diagnostic imaging characteristics of lateral digital flexor tendinitis within the tarsal sheath in four horses.

This study examines the diagnosis and treatment of lateral digital flexor tendinitis in horses, a rare cause of hind limb lameness, with the help of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The researchers concluded that MRI was effective in the diagnosis of this condition and that horses could potentially regain their athletic performance after receiving appropriate medical treatment.

Objectives

• The research aims to describe the clinical and diagnostic imaging findings for horses with lateral digital flexor tendinitis.
• The research also intends to explore the effectiveness of treatments and the potential prognosis for such cases.

Methodology

• Researchers retrospectively studied equal cases with a diagnosis of lateral digital flexor tendonitis, using MRI studies conducted at North Carolina University.
• Data recorded included patient details; findings from history, physical examination, lameness examination, and all diagnostic imaging studies; treatments given and outcomes.
• Four horses met the criteria for this study. All demonstrated mild or moderate lameness and showed various responses to flexion tests.
• Lameness in the horses improved by 70-90% after tarsal sheath analgesia, a pain-relief treatment meant to alleviate symptoms of tendonitis and provide comfort to the horses while they heal.

Results

• Radiographic, scintigraphic, and ultrasonographic findings were inconclusive. However, MRI showed particular characteristics within the lateral digital flexor tendon in the area of the tarsal sheath. Specifically, MRI scans revealed increased T2, PD, and STIR signal intensity in this area.
• Slight tarsal sheath effusion (an abnormal accumulation of fluid) was found in three of the horses, and mild to moderate effusion in the fourth one.
• After receiving medical treatment, two of the horses were found to be sound at the 6-month follow-up. Another horse was sound at the 1-year follow-up and one had a slight persistent lameness (grade 1/5) at its 9-month follow-up.

Conclusions

• The findings of the research suggest that MRI is an effective diagnostic tool for identifying lateral digital flexor tendinitis in horses.
• Furthermore, the data supports that affected horses may return to performing at their pre-injury levels after receiving the correct medical treatment, implying a good prognosis for horses suffering from this condition.