Page 319 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
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Figure 7.6 Bulge of distended digital tendon sheath
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of these lesions can be difficult unless the swelling is obvious. Sometimes a
diagnosis can be made on the clinical signs and ultrasonography but an MRI scan may be
needed. Nerve blocks may be helpful. Surgical exploration may be required if the lesion is
within the digital sheath. However, when the damage occurs within the hoof capsule close to
its insertion on the distal phalanx, this may not be picked up by ultrasonography. This may
require nuclear scintigraphy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography
(CT) for a definite diagnosis. Consequently, deep digital flexor tendon injuries may be under-
diagnosed as a cause of foot pain and forelimb lameness in the horse.
Treatment
This may include:
• box rest
