Superficial digital flexor tendonitis in cutting horses: 19 cases (2007-2011).

This research aimed to study and analyze superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendon injuries in the forelimbs of cutting horses, evaluating recurrence rate and prognosis.

Research Methodology

• The study was designed as a retrospective case series, reviewing medical records of 19 cutting horses with SDF tendonitis across the years 2007 to 2011.
• The researchers gathered data on the age and sex of the horses, the severity of their lameness, the specific limb affected, and the treatment they received.
• Ultrasonographic images of the tendon injuries were closely examined to gather detailed information about the specific characteristics of these lesions.
• Follow-up interviews were conducted with the owners or trainers of these horses to assess whether the condition recurred, whether the horse was able to return to its previous level of activity, and how long the recovery period was.

Research Findings

• All the horses, initially investigated for SDF tendonitis, had similar lesions on the lateral aspect of the tendon.
• Out of all the horses, the right forelimb was affected in 11 horses, the left in 7, and 1 horse had both forelimbs affected.
• The average lameness grade amongst the horses was 1.26, based on a scale of 0 to 3.
• Following up with 17 horses, the researchers found that 3 had relapses of tendon lesions and 1 developed a new lesion in the opposite forelimb’s SDF tendon. However, it was also found that 16 horses were eventually able to return to their previous levels of activity.

Conclusions Drawn

• The SDF tendonitis in these cutting horses was found to be somewhat unique, as no lesions were detected in the central part of the tendon via ultrasonography. The lesions were discovered only at the periphery of the tendon.
• It was suggested that lesions at the periphery of the tendon might have a better healing capacity compared to core lesions.
• Based on the findings, the researchers concluded that cutting horses suffering from SDF tendonitis may have a better prognosis than what is typically reported for racehorses suffering from similar injuries.