Distal border synovial invaginations of the equine distal sesamoid bone communicate with the distal interphalangeal joint

Julien Olive; Marine Videau

doi:10.3415/VCOT-16-08-0120

Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Table of Contents

Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2017; 30(02): 107-110
DOI: 10.3415/VCOT-16-08-0120

Original Research

Schattauer GmbH

Distal border synovial invaginations of the equine distal sesamoid bone communicate with the distal interphalangeal joint

Authors

Julien Olive

¹Département de Sciences Cliniques, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint- Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
Marine Videau

¹Département de Sciences Cliniques, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint- Hyacinthe, QC, Canada

Abstract

Summary

Objectives: Macroscopic studies have suggested a link between distal border synovial invaginations of the navicular bone and the distal interphalangeal joint. However, many practitioners consider that these invagi-nations are directly and solely related to navicular disease. The objective was to investigate the communication pattern of these synovial invaginations with the synovial compartments of the distal interphalangeal joint and the navicular bursa, using minimally invasive imaging techniques.

Methods: In a prospective observational study, 10 cadaveric limbs with radiographically evident distal border synovial invagi-nations were randomly assigned to computed tomography arthrography or bursography groups, using iopamidol.

Results: In 5/5 limbs, contrast medium filled the invaginations following distal interphalangeal arthrography. In the other five limbs, no contrast medium filled the invaginations following bursography.

Clinical significance: Contrary to existing beliefs, these invaginations are more likely associated with distal interphalangeal joint synovitis and may not be directly linked to primary navicular bone pathology, but might reflect distal interphalangeal arthropathy. Therefore, the rationale for assessment of these invaginations in stallion selection or pre-purchase examinations as a predictive sign for navicular disease is questionable. Nonetheless, comorbidities are frequent in the equine distal limb. Enlarged synovial invaginations may also be seen in limbs with concomitant primary navicular disease. Further studies are needed to elucidate possible inter-related pathological processes.

Keywords

Horse - navicular bone - arthrography - bursography

Full Text

References

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