Med. Weter. 72 (3), 191-196, 2016
full text
| Henklewski R., Skalec A. |
| Primary flexor retinaculum injury as an uncommon cause of swelling or lameness associated with proximal metacarpal pain in racehorses and sports horses |
| The aim of this study was to define the prevalence of primary flexor retinaculum injury among racehorses and sports horses examined ultrasonographically because of swelling and/or lameness associated with proximal metacarpal pain. An additional aim was to characterise the sonographic appearance of the flexor retinaculum and its lesions in the metacarpal region. The research material consisted of 41 horses with diagnosed metacarpal oedema and/or lameness originating from proximal metacarpal pain. Flexor tendons and peritendinous tissues were assessed ultrasonographically. The examination was performed through palmar, palmarolateral and palmaromedial approaches in transverse and longitudinal planes with a stand-off pad. The skin was clipped, moistened with warm water and covered with ultrasound coupling gel to assure good contact with skin surface and good quality of images. In three horses, a primary injury of the lateral branch of the flexor retinaculum just beneath the accessory carpal bone was diagnosed ultrasonographically. The affected flexor retinaculum was thicker and hypoechogenic. No coexisting tendon lesion was present. A primary injury to the flexor retinaculum can cause proximal metacarpal oedema and lameness in horse. |
| Key words: flexor retinaculum, injury, proximal metacarpal region, ultrasonography, horses |