Desmotomy for treatment of chronic desmitis of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon in a horse.

This research paper describes a case where chronic lameness in a horse was successfully treated by performing a surgical procedure known as desmotomy, along with removal of adhesions and controlled exercise during recovery.

Case Presentation

The study focuses on a case where a horse was diagnosed with chronic lameness. The cause of the lameness was identified as:

• Desmitis of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon
• Adhesions associated with these two structures

Diagnosis

The team concluded that the chronic lameness was due to desmitis, or inflammation of a ligament, in this case, the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon. Desmitis is a common condition in horses that can cause lameness. In addition to desmitis, adhesions or abnormal unions of membranous surfaces due to inflammation or injury were also present, leading to pain and discomfort for the horse.

Treatment

After diagnosing the problem, the team performed a desmotomy, a surgical procedure that involves cutting the ligament to relieve tension or pressure. Along with the desmotomy, they also performed resections of adhesions that had formed between the ligament and tendon. Both of these procedures aimed to alleviate the chronic lameness and improve the horse’s comfort and mobility.

Post-Treatment & Recover

Under the team’s care, the horse also received controlled exercise during its convalescence. This would have helped to gradually rebuild the strength and resilience of the ligament and tendon, as well as improve overall joint mobility and function. Importantly, this controlled exercise program also reduces the risk of new adhesions forming during the horse’s recovery.

Outcome

The treatment, which comprised of desmotomy, resection of adhesions, and controlled exercise, was hailed a success. Following convalescence, the horse was reported to return to normal use without apparent lameness, demonstrating the effectiveness of these combined therapeutic approaches in treating chronic lameness caused by desmitis of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon and associated adhesions.