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The fetlock tunnel syndrome: a macroscopic and microscopic study
M J van den Berg1, A B Rijkenhuizen, F Németh
1Department of General and Large Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.
The Veterinary Quarterly
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Histological examination revealed significant differences in the annular ligaments (AL) of horses with fetlock tunnel syndrome (FTS). Affected AL were thicker, less white, and showed altered collagen structure and increased vascularization compared to normal ligaments.
Area of Science:
- Equine veterinary medicine
- Histopathology
- Lameness diagnostics
Background:
- Fetlock tunnel syndrome (FTS) in horses is associated with chronic changes in structures within the fetlock region.
- The annular ligament (AL) is a key structure within the fetlock tunnel.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the macroscopic and microscopic features of normal equine annular ligaments (AL) with those from horses diagnosed with fetlock tunnel syndrome (FTS).
- To identify histological differences that may contribute to the etiology of FTS.
Main Methods:
- Macroscopic and microscopic examination of 49 normal equine AL and 30 AL from horses with FTS.
- Histological analysis focused on collagen bundle arrangement, fibroblast distribution, and vascularity.
Main Results:
- Normal AL appeared shiny white and had parallel collagen bundles (approx. 1 mm thick) with small blood vessels.
- Affected AL were thicker, less white, exhibited altered collagen orientation, increased fibroblast density, and significantly increased vascularization with arterial wall changes.
Conclusions:
- Histological findings indicate significant structural and vascular alterations in the AL of horses with FTS.
- These changes in the equine annular ligament likely play a role in the pathogenesis of fetlock tunnel syndrome.