Evaluation of inferior check ligament desmotomy for treatment of acquired flexor tendon contracture in the horse.

The usefulness of inferior check ligament desmotomy as a treatment for acquired tendon contracture in horses was evaluated in 13 cases of deep digital flexor (DDF) contracture and in 3 cases of combined superficial digital flexor (SDF) and DDF contracture. In 8 of 9 cases of DDF contracture in which the dorsal surface of the hoof had not passed beyond being vertical to the ground, the surgical procedure was successful in returning the limb to a normal position and function. Compared with DDF tenotomy, inferior check ligament desmotomy was a superior treatment technique because of decreased postoperative pain, better postoperative appearance, and improved return to function. In 4 cases of DDF contracture in which the dorsal SDF contracture was also involved, inferior check ligament desmotomy was generally insufficient to allow return of the limb to normal alignment and function.