Deep digital flexor tendon shortening as a treatment for distal interphalangeal joint hyperextension in a 2-year-old mare.

This research discusses a surgical procedure performed on a two-year-old Quarter Horse Mare, suffering from joint hyperextension and related issues, by shortening the deep digital flexor tendon. These issues were presumably caused by previous trauma to the distal limb. The surgery led to significant improvement in the mare’s comfort, movement capability, and limb conformation, demonstrating its probable applicability as a treatment option.

Objective and Problem Concerned

• This particular study deals with distal interphalangeal joint hyperextension and metatarsophalangeal joint hyperextension in horses – conditions which are usually caused by injury or trauma to the distal limb, specifically damage to the digital flexor tendons.
• The research focuses on a procedure involving shortening the deep digital flexor tendon through tenotomy (a surgical procedure that involves cutting a tendon), overlapping the cut tendon, and anastomosis (connecting the cut structures), with the intent to alleviate these issues.

Procedure and Case Studied

• The procedure was performed on a two-year-old Quarter Horse Mare. The mare was suffering from both distal interphalangeal joint hyperextension with subluxation (partial dislocation) and metatarsophalangeal joint hyperextension.
• The procedure involved a tendon shortening surgery, achieved by cutting the tendon (tenotomy), then overlapping the cut tendon, and finally, connecting the cut structures (anastomosis).

Outcome and Conclusion

• Post-procedure, the study observed marked improvement in the mare’s level of comfort, degree of ambulation (ability to move around), and limb conformation (correct anatomical structure).
• These improvements were not short-term. Even two years following the surgery, the mare was seen to be comfortable and able to move freely at pasture, showing that the procedure had a positive, lasting effect.
• The research concludes that this operation’s evident success indicates its potential as an effective treatment option for horses suffering from distal interphalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joint hyperextension issues.