Contrast-enhanced computed tomographic evaluation of the deep digital flexor tendon in the equine foot compared to macroscopic and histological findings in 23 limbs.

摘要: REASONS FOR PERFORMING THE STUDY: Distal deep digital flexor tendinopathy is an important cause of foot lameness in horses that difficult to diagnose with radiography and ultrasonography. Magnetic resonance imaging a well-accepted validated technique for the identification tendon (DDFT) lesions, but has some practical financial drawbacks. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) been proposed as suitable alternative, validation studies are currently lacking. OBJECTIVE: To assess accuracy CECT characterisation tendinopathy. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive study CT, macroscopic histological findings DDFT. METHODS: Plain scans were acquired 23 limbs 16 clinical localised foot. All had lesions DDFT identified characterised CT respect their anatomic location extent. underwent post mortem examination gross abnormalities described. Samples taken at specific sites (lesion nonlesion) evaluation. Macroscopic outcomes compared findings. RESULTS: Of 67 DDFTs evaluated, 42 18 tendons on images. These also There 3 false negative positive results CECT. The sensitivity diagnosing equine was 93%. CONCLUSION: effective adjunct more commonly used diagnostic techniques pain.