1. Magnetic resonance imaging findings of desmopathy of the collateral ligaments of the equine distal interphalangeal joint
- Author
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Richard D. Mitchell, Kent A. Allen, Natasha M. Werpy, Laurie Tyrrell, Santiago D. Gutierrez-Nibeyro, Nathaniel A. White, and K. E. Sullins
- Subjects
Male ,medicine.medical_specialty ,Extracorporeal shock wave therapy ,medicine.medical_treatment ,Lameness, Animal ,Rest ,Toe Joint ,Sensitivity and Specificity ,Distal interphalangeal joint ,Diagnosis, Differential ,medicine ,Animals ,Horses ,Retrospective Studies ,Medial collateral ligament ,Rehabilitation ,General Veterinary ,medicine.diagnostic_test ,business.industry ,Enthesopathy ,Reproducibility of Results ,Magnetic resonance imaging ,Collateral Ligaments ,medicine.disease ,Prognosis ,Magnetic Resonance Imaging ,Surgery ,medicine.anatomical_structure ,Treatment Outcome ,Lameness ,Ligament ,Female ,Horse Diseases ,Radiology ,Joint Diseases ,business ,Follow-Up Studies - Abstract
We report the use of a low-field magnetic resonance (MR) imaging system for the detection of desmopathy of the collateral ligament of the distal interphalangeal joint and the long-term outcome. Twenty horses were studied and their medical records and MR images were reviewed retrospectively. Long-term follow-up information was obtained by telephonic questionnaires of owners, trainers, or referring veterinarians. Desmopathy of the medial collateral ligament (80%) and enthesopathy of the affected collateral ligament (80%) were common MR imaging features. Treatment consisted of stall rest followed by a rehabilitation period. Additional treatments included shoeing, extracorporeal shock wave therapy, application of a half limb or foot cast, and medication of the distal interphalangeal joint. Twelve (60%) horses returned to their previous level of exercise and maintained their previous level, whereas eight horses had a poor outcome. Low-field MR imaging in the standing patient can be used to detect collateral ligament desmopathy of the distal interphalangeal joint without a need for general anesthesia.
- Published
- 2009