Does Standing Magnetic Resonance Imaging Assist in the Assessment of Equine Superficial Digital Flexor Tendinopathy?: 10 Cases

Introduction: Assessment of activity of superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) pathology can be problematic with ultrasonography (US). Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may provide additional information to determine lesion extent and activity, which is critical when advising on rehabilitation. The study objective was to compare the appearance and apparent activity of SDFT lesions with ultrasonography and MRI in horses by a prospective descriptive case series.

Materials and Methods: Medical records of 10 horses diagnosed with lesions within the SDFT from 2010 to 2022 from a referral equine hospital were reviewed. MRI and US were compared to assess differences in size/extent of the lesion and our interpretation of activity of lesions by consensus of ECDVI/ECVS/ACVSMR diploma holders. This information was used to determine the appropriate plane of exercise.

Results: In three cases MRI and US findings agreed regarding lesion size and staging of degree of activity/chronicity. In two cases the lesion appeared more severe on MRI than US. In five of the cases MRI appearance of the lesion was interpreted to be less active than was considered with ultrasound. These then resumed full work and competition earlier based on the MRI, and none of them re-injured.

Discussion/Conclusion: MRI provided additional information to US alone, which enabled increased confidence in rehabilitation and return to competition in horses where a decision based on US would have led the clinician to proceed with more caution. Therefore, MRI of SDFT tendinopathy is of benefit where further information is required as to appropriate timing of progression of exercise.

Acknowledgements: There was no proprietary interest or funding provided for this project.

Publication History

Article published online:
11 September 2023