Ultrasonographic characteristics (cross-sectional area and relative echogenicity) of the digital flexor tendons and ligaments of the metacarpal region in Purebred Spanish horses.

This study investigates the ultrasound characteristics of the digital flexor tendons and ligaments in the metacarpal region of Purebred Spanish horses. The goal is to establish normative values for these characteristics and to understand the role of factors like age, sex, body mass index, and forelimb influence.

Study Method and Objectives

• The research aimed to establish the normal values for two ultrasonographic characteristics – the Cross-Sectional Area (CSA) and Relative Echogenicity (RE) – of the flexor tendons and ligaments in the metacarpal region of Purebred Spanish horses (PBSH).
• Further, the study sought to explore how body mass index (BMI), age, sex, and forelimb variations affect these ultrasound characteristics.

Research Approach

• 20 normal PBSH (comprising of 10 males and 10 females, ranging in age between 2-25 years, having BMI between 132.04-152.25, and not being in training) were used for the ultrasound imaging.
• Transverse ultrasonographic images of the flexor tendons and ligaments of the horses were gathered.
• The images were subsequently digitised to assess the CSA and RE for each structure in the metacarpal region.

Key Findings

• The suspensory ligament came out to be the most echogenic (reflecting ultrasound waves to a high degree), as well as the largest structure among those examined.
• The superficial digital flexor tendon on the other hand was the least echogenic and was the smallest of the tissues that were examined.
• Overall, the tendons and ligaments in the metacarpal region of PBSH showcased similar RE, but had smaller CSAs in comparison to those from other breeds.