Superficial digital flexor tendonitis in cutting horses: 19 cases (2007-2011).

OBJECTIVE

To characterize superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendon lesions in the forelimbs of cutting horses and determine recurrence rate and prognosis for this condition.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

ANIMALS

19 cutting horses with SDF tendonitis.

PROCEDURES

Medical records for horses evaluated for SDF tendonitis in 2007 through 2011 were reviewed. Data regarding age, sex, lameness grade, affected limb, and treatment were collected. Ultrasonographic images were reviewed, and lesion characteristics were recorded. Follow-up telephone interviews with owners or trainers were conducted to determine recurrence of SDF tendonitis, return of horse to its previous level of activity, and duration of the convalescent period.

RESULTS

All 19 horses initially evaluated for SDF tendonitis had similar lesions in the lateral aspect of the tendon. The right forelimb was affected in 11 horses, and the left forelimb was affected in 7 horses; 1 horse was affected in both forelimbs. Mean lameness grade was 1.26 (range, 0 to 3). Of 17 horses for which follow-up information was available, 3 had recurrence of tendon lesions and 1 developed a lesion in the contralateral forelimb SDF tendon; 16 horses returned to their previous level of activity.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The location of SDF tendonitis in cutting horses appeared to be unique in that no central core lesions were detected ultrasonographically. Lesions at the periphery of the tendon may have an increased ability to heal, compared with lesions at the central core. Results suggested that cutting horses with SDF tendonitis have a better prognosis than that reported for affected racehorses.