Superior check ligament desmotomy for treatment of superficial digital flexor tendonitis in thoroughbred and standardbred horses.

The research explores the effectiveness of bilateral superior check ligament desmotomy as a treatment for superficial digital flexor tendonitis in Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses, showcasing improved chances of successful return to racing after the injury.

Overview of Methodology and Subjects

• The study involved a bilateral superior check ligament desmotomy performed on 48 horses, 31 Thoroughbreds, and 17 Standardbreds. This surgical procedure was used solely as a cure for superficial digital flexor tendonitis, a common equine injury.
• The timespan between the horses resuming racing post-surgery ranged from 6 to 19 months.
• The success of the treatment was judged based on whether the horses could participate in at least five races without re-injuring their tendon. Horses satisfying this criterion were deemed to have successfully returned to racing.

Results of the Study

• For assessing the results, 25 Thoroughbreds and 15 Standardbreds were found suitable. Of these, 13 Thoroughbreds (52%) and 10 Standardbreds (66%) successfully raced for five or more events.
• The achieving percentage is seen as significant since the common belief within the racing industry is that only 20-30% of horses with superficial digital flexor tendonitis can return to racing after a prolonged rest.

Conclusion and Implications of the Study

• The results signal that bilateral superior check ligament desmotomy might advance the prognosis for a horse’s return to racing post-injury to the superficial digital flexor tendon.
• This could prompt a rethink within the equine sector on the treatment protocols for such injuries and potentially reshape horse recovery programs. Thus, fostering the well-being of racehorses and, in turn, influence the industry’s dynamics.