Retrospective analysis of oblique and straight distal sesamoidean ligament desmitis in 52 horses

Abstract

Background: Injuries to the oblique (ODSL) or straight (SDSL) distal sesamoidean ligaments are a recognised cause of distal limb lameness in the horse. However, there are only limited publications addressing common diagnostic features and prognosis.

Objectives: (a) Report findings on ultrasonography and standing low-field magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) in horses with ODSL or SDSL injury; (b) Identify clinical variables associated with lesion type and (c) Identify factors associated with return to soundness in horses with ODSL or SDSL injury.

Study design: Retrospective case series.

Methods: Horses with a primary diagnosis of ODSL or SDSL injury confirmed with a combination of diagnostic analgesia and detection of a lesion on imaging (ultrasonographic ± advanced imaging) were included. Return to soundness and performance follow-up data were obtained.

Results: Fifty-one horses were included. SDSL injuries were more common in the forelimb (13/21, 62%), while ODSL injuries had equal frequency in fore- (15/30, 50%) and hindlimbs (15/30, 50%). ODSL injuries were more likely than SDSL injuries to affect the proximal third of the ligament (OR =13; 95% CI 2.3-74.3; p = 0.004) and often presented with periligamentar swelling (20/30;67%) and focal pain (22/28;79%). Lesions were frequently detected using ultrasonography (35/42;83%) and sMRI examination (18/25;72%). Only 27/49 cases (55%) returned to soundness, with only 15/49 (31%) returning to intended use. There were no significant associations between outcome and clinical features or treatment.

Main limitations: There was no comparative "gold standard" to validate lesions such as high-field MRI or histopathology.

Conclusions: In contrast to previous studies, ODSL and SDSL injuries were readily identified ultrasonographically using appropriate views, and with sMRI. Given the limited availability, cost and general anaesthetic risks associated with high-field MRI, more focus should be placed on optimising the ultrasonographic examination. Owners of affected horses should be informed of the guarded prognosis for return to full use.

Keywords: distal sesamoidean ligament; horse; lameness; tenoscopy; ultrasonography.