This ultrasonographic procedure images the palmar aspect of the digit, from the middle phalanx to the area between the bulbs of the heels (Bolen, et al, 2007). The purpose of this study is to realize a presentation of the ultrasound technique of equine foot and to present normal images of the ultrasonographic anatomy in this region. The study was performed at CIRALE-IPC, France on ten healthy horses, with no history of lameness and without any clinical sign like local swelling or joint distension. Longitudinal and transverse ultrasound sections were obtained. The images were recorded and compared with anatomical sections. The ultrasound of the palmar aspect of the foot is realized from the middle phalanx till the heel bulb. A microconvex transducer with a frequency varying between 5.0 to 10.0 MHz has been used. This technique allowed us to examine the palmar aspect of the middle phalanx (P2), the distal interphalangeal joint with the palmar proximal recess and podotrochlear apparatus formed by: distal sesamoid bone and associated ligaments, deep digital flexor tendon and podotrochlear bursa. The distal part of the podotrochlear apparatus as well as the solear face of the distal phalanx can be imaged through the transcuneal approach.
展开▼