Desmitis of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon: 27 cases (1986-1990).

This study looks at 27 cases of horses diagnosed with inflammation of a specific ligament in their leg, the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon (ALDDFT), between 1986 and 1990. The research suggests that horses with this injury, but without concurrent injuries, were generally able to return to work within a few months without re-injury.

Overview of the Research

• The research examines 27 cases of horses diagnosed with desmitis (inflammation of ligaments) of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon (ALDDFT), an important structure in a horse’s leg, between 1986 and 1990.
• The first sign of this condition in four horses was localized swelling in a part of the horse’s leg known as the proximal metacarpus. This area, also known as the cannon bone region, is located just above the fetlock or ankle joint.
• 20 of the horses became suddenly lame (unable to walk properly) during a work period and most of these developed swelling within 24 hours of the exercise. Lameness is often a clear sign of pain or discomfort in horses.

Confirmed Injury and Outcome

• The diagnosis of ALDDFT desmitis was confirmed utilising ultrasonographic examinations, a common method for visualising structures within the horse’s body that would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye.
• Results showed a favorable outcome for horses with this particular injury, provided there were no concurrent conditions. These horses were generally able to return to full work duties within a timeframe of three to nine months after the onset of symptoms. Furthermore, there were no recurrences of symptoms within the follow-up period, which lasted from nine months up to four years.

Impact of Concurrent Injuries

• However, there were exceptions to this generally positive prognosis. In a few cases, horses had concurrent acute desmitis of both the ALDDFT and the superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendon – another important structure in a horse’s lower leg. These horses did not return to full work.
• Additionally, two horses had a history of previous SDF tendonitis (inflammation of the SDF tendon), and these also did not regain full function after the ALDDFT desmitis.
• This highlights the importance of considering other concurrent or historical injuries when managing horse patients with ALDDFT desmitis and suggesting treatment and prognosis.