Some ultrasonographic measurements of metacarpal tendons and ligaments in sound Dareh-shori horses

Tendons and ligaments in palmar aspect of metacarpus are always exposure to injuries resulting from traumas and diseases of limbs. Ultrasonographic evaluation enables observation of the tendons and ligaments injuries and diseases of limbs. Ultrasonography is currently being used to assess tendon/ligament healing. This study was conducted on 5 healthy Dareh-shori horses with a Mean age of 13.8±5.38 years and height of 128.8±13.15 cm. Non of the horses have clinically disorders in front limbs. After clipping and washing, the area between accessory carpal bone and fetlock joint was divided into 6 zones and 2 levels in sagittal and 4 levels in transverse view. ultrasonography was performed with a linear transducer 12 MHZ Frequency on both front limbs in full weight bearing. Measurements of tendons and ligaments such as Superficial digital flexor tendon, Deep digital flexor tendon, Inferior check ligament and Suspensory ligament were done both sagittal (1 and 2) and transverse (1, 2, 3 and 4) view. Transverse ultrasonogram were made to get the measurements such as thickness, width and cross- sectional area of tendons and ligaments. Echogenicity and fibrillary pattern of tendons and ligaments were assessed in longitudinal images. Results of this study showed no significant differences was found between the amounts of the right and left front limbs.