Page 327 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

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Figure 7.9 A severed superficial digital flexor tendon left this horse with a permanently thickened limb

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis is made on the clinical signs and ultrasonography.

TREATMENT

General anaesthesia may be required for the wound to be thoroughly inspected and cleaned,

then dead or contaminated tissue is removed surgically. If the digital flexor tendon sheath is
involved, this must be flushed and medicated with antibiotics. Wherever possible, the tendon

is sutured and then immobilized in a cast for several weeks. A heel support is sometimes
incorporated in the cast to reduce the pull on the tendon and allow healing to occur.