The objective of this study was to evaluate radiographically and ultrasonographically the podotrochlear apparatus using a transcuneal approach in 22 American Quarter horses suffering from navicular syndrome. On the radiographs, different forms of synovial invaginations, calcification of the podotrochlear bursa and deep digital flexor tendon, enthesophyte and osteophyte formation, and changes in the cortical-medullary margin were observed. On the ultrasound scans, changes of the podotrochlear bursa, adhesions and irregularities at the surface of the deep digital flexor tendon, the digital cushion area reduction, calcification of the impar distal sesamoideal ligament, and irregularities of the flexor surface of the distal sesamoid bone were observed. Radiographic and ultrasonographic abnormalities compatible with navicular syndrome were present in all patients. Ultrasonography using transcuneal approach was a practical and efficient method to evaluate podotrochlear apparatus injuries in equine, thus being a complementary method to radiography.
Transcuneal ultrasound; navicular syndrome; lameness; podotrochlear apparatus
