Ultrasonographic Diagnosis of Fetlock Collateral Ligament Rupture in 17 Horses

摘要

Fetlock collateral ligament rupture should be considered in horses with acute lameness and fetlock swelling with or without palpable joint instability. Ultrasound can be used to provide a quick and reliable diagnosis of collateral ligament rupture, allowing for early initiation of treatment. Conservative treatment consisting of limb immobilization and stall rest can produce favorable results despite severe initial injury. Rupture of the collateral ligaments (CL) of the meta-carpo(tarso)phalangeal orfetlock joint is not likely to be frequently encountered by the individual practitioner but may be seen with some regularity at equine referral centers. The diagnosis is straightforward in horses presenting with medial or lateral luxation of the fetlockjoint or in horses with open injuries, but it is often more challenging in horses with lameness and fetlock swelling as the primary complaint.