Ultrasonographic visualization of morphological changes in the tendon tissue of the superficial flexor of the finger in sports horses with tendinopathy

Abstract

At least one half of population of sport horses during life suffer from superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) pathologies, particularly tendinitis and tendinopathies. Etiology of these injuries differs, and their evolution depends on some morphological peculiarities and type of equestrian sport. Success in early detection of preclinical signs of tendinopathy plays a key role in diagnostics and effective treatment in order to preserve athletic potential of a horse. Although in terms of clinical assessment it is not always possible to detect these early pathological changes in tendon tissue without ultrasonography. In this situation elicitation of correlation between morphological and ultrasonic signs seems to be of great importance, because it adds diagnostic and prognostic value of an ultrasound assessment of a patient. Taking into account all mentioned above the aim this study is investigating morphological and ultrasound characteristics of SDFT in middle and distal parts at the cannon and in the area of fetlock joint in normal horses and dressage and show jumping horses with tendinitispathy. In the present study, methods of anatomical preparation and description were used, histological studies were carried out according to the generally accepted methodology, as well as ultrasonographic studies of sports horses using Mindray DС-70 device. Structural features of the SDF tendon were revealed, which explain the chronicity of the pathological process and predispose to incomplete regeneration of the tendon, leading to a deterioration in its functional characteristics and a decrease in the horse's performance. The data obtained deepen the understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of tendinopathy of the SDFT and allow more detailed interpretation of data obtained by ultrasonographic studies carried out during diagnostic procedures in sport horses, as well as adjusting treatment regimens.