Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of the Equine Palmar Metacarpal Region Using E12 Plastinated Sections.
Abstract: Digital technologies have improved the visualization of anatomical structures for veterinary education and clinical practice. In this study, a detailed three-dimensional anatomical model of the equine palmar metacarpal region was generated using E12-based epoxy sheet plastination combined with digital reconstruction in Amira V5.6 software. Serial cross-sections of the metacarpal region provided high-resolution visualization of bones, tendons, ligaments, nerves, vessels, fasciae, and synovial structures, with minimal shrinkage or deformation, ensuring improved anatomical accuracy. These sections were digitized, aligned, and manually segmented to accurately delineate anatomical boundaries, particularly in areas of low contrast. The resulting three-dimensional model represents the topographical relationships of key structures, including palmar nerves and vessels, the palmar fascia with the metacarpal flexor retinaculum (MFR), and the common synovial sheath (, CSS). The model allows rotation and selective visualization of individual structures, facilitating examination from multiple perspectives. This combined plastination-digital approach provides an accurate anatomical reference with value for veterinary anatomy education, clinical training, surgical planning, and research on equine musculoskeletal disorders.
Publication Date: 2026-02-01 PubMed ID: 41681428PubMed Central: PMC12896420DOI: 10.3390/ani16030449Google Scholar: Lookup
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- Journal Article
Summary
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Three-dimensional digital models of the equine palmar metacarpal region were created using detailed epoxy resin plastinated cross-sections, enabling improved visualization of complex anatomical features important for veterinary education and clinical applications.
Overview of Research Purpose and Importance
- The study aimed to generate a precise 3D anatomical model of the equine palmar metacarpal region, which is part of a horse’s forelimb involved in locomotion and weight-bearing.
- Enhancing anatomical visualization aids veterinarians and researchers in understanding the complex arrangements of bones, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and vessels in this area, which is critical for diagnosis, treatment, and surgical planning.
- Digital modeling combined with plastination offers a more interactive and detailed perspective than traditional static images or dissection specimens.
Methodology: Data Acquisition and Processing
- Specimens of the equine palmar metacarpal region were prepared using the E12 epoxy sheet plastination technique, which preserves cross-sectional anatomy with minimal shrinkage and deformation, maintaining accurate spatial relationships.
- Serial cross-sections were produced that demonstrated high-resolution anatomical details, capturing various structures including:
- Bones (likely metacarpal bones)
- Tendons and ligaments (providing mechanical support and movement)
- Nerves and vessels (important for sensory and blood supply)
- Fasciae and synovial structures such as the common synovial sheath (CSS)
- The physical sections were digitized, meaning each slice was converted into digital images.
- Using Amira V5.6 software, images were aligned and segmented manually to delineate anatomical boundaries, especially where tissue contrast was low, ensuring accurate identification of each component.
Construction of the Three-Dimensional Model
- The segmented 2D slice images were reconstructed into a 3D digital model.
- This model captures the topographical and spatial relationship of important anatomical structures such as:
- Palmar nerves and vessels which run on the palmar (back) side of the metacarpus
- The palmar fascia, including the metacarpal flexor retinaculum (MFR), which acts as a retainer for tendons and protects underlying structures
- The common synovial sheath (CSS), a fluid-filled structure that reduces friction around tendons
- The model supports interactive features such as rotation and selective visualization, allowing users to view individual anatomical components in isolation or combined, facilitating better understanding through multiple perspectives.
Applications and Significance of the Model
- Provides an accurate anatomical reference for veterinary students and professionals learning equine musculoskeletal anatomy.
- Improves clinical training by enabling veterinarians to visualize complex structures preoperatively or for diagnostic evaluations.
- Assists surgeons in planning interventions by understanding the relative positioning of critical nerves, vessels, and connective tissue structures.
- Supports research into equine musculoskeletal disorders, including tendon injuries or joint conditions affecting the palmar metacarpal region.
- The combination of plastination with digital reconstruction represents a valuable advancement over traditional anatomical resources, combining physical preservation quality with interactive digital analysis.
Cite This Article
APA
Eren G, López-Albors O, López Corbalán M, Latorre R.
(2026).
Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of the Equine Palmar Metacarpal Region Using E12 Plastinated Sections.
Animals (Basel), 16(3), 449.
https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16030449 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Department of Anatomy and Comparative Pathological Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
- Department of Anatomy and Comparative Pathological Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
- Department of Anatomy and Comparative Pathological Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
- Department of Anatomy and Comparative Pathological Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
Conflict of Interest Statement
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
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