Ultrasonographic Characteristics of the Stifle Joint in Clinically Normal Donkeys (Equus asinus)

Abstract

Stifle ultrasonography is a widely accepted diagnostic tool that has been used for diagnosing articular and peri-articular stifle injuries in horses. Limited information is available regarding the ultrasonographic appearance of the stifle joint in donkeys. The aim of the present study was to describe the normal ultrasonographic characteristics of the stifle joint in clinically normal donkeys. A descriptive study was done on 15 clinically normal donkeys (30 joints). Ultrasonographic examination was done in a systematic manner including both supra- and infra-patellar regions. The patella, patellar ligaments and tibial tuberosity were taken as palpable anatomical landmarks for localization of different stifle structures. A detailed description of the ultrasonographic appearance of the quadriceps muscle, supra-patellar pouch and femoropatellar joint was done through the supra-patellar approach. In infra-patellar approach, thepatellar ligaments, medial and lateral femorotibial joints, collateral ligaments, menisci, origin of peroneous tertius and popliteal tendon were described. Standardized, repeatable and reliable images were achieved from both approaches. Ultrasonography provided a clinically useful tool for diagnosing donkeys with stifle joint disease.