Ultrasonographic examination of the palmar aspect of the pastern of the horse: Digital flexor tendons and digital sheath

Ultrasonography is the technique of choice to identify and document tendon and ligament injuries and its interest in the diagnosis of pastern injuries has been largely demonstrated. Ultrasound examination is therefore part of routine examination in diagnostic work-up of lameness originating from the foot or pastern area. This paper describes the ultrasonographic technique and presents normal and abnormal ultrasound images of the palmar pastern. A comprehensive description of normal transverse and longitudinal ultrasound scans is made at 4 anatomical levels. Main ultrasonographic findings indicative of digital flexor tendon lesions are presented as well as digital sheath injuries.