An anatomic study of the calcaneal bursae in the horse.
Authors: Post Evelyn M, Singer Ellen R, Clegg Peter D
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Calcaneal Bursal Anatomy in the Horse Post, Singer and Clegg's anatomical examination of 18 cadaveric hindlimbs has clarified the complex interconnections between the three calcaneal bursae—findings that carry important clinical implications for diagnosis and treatment of calcaneal bursitis. Using latex injection and serial sectioning, the researchers confirmed that the intertendinous calcaneal bursa (ICB) and gastrocnemius calcaneal bursa (GCB) communicate as a single synovial structure in all limbs medially and in 50% laterally, whilst the subcutaneous calcaneal bursa (SCB) communicates with this system in approximately 39% of cases, with plantar extensions identified in a further third of specimens. The ICB extended an average of 9.6 cm proximally and 7.0 cm distally from the tuber calcanei, with the SCB occupying a more distal position than previously described in standard anatomical texts. For practitioners, this work establishes a reliable landmark for gastrocnemius bursa injection during synoviocentesis when septic calcaneal bursitis is suspected, and emphasises that infection or inflammation in one bursa may readily involve the others through documented communication pathways—knowledge that should inform both diagnostic interpretation and treatment strategy selection.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •The gastrocnemius bursa can be used as an alternative injection site for synoviocentesis when treating septic calcaneal bursitis, particularly when medial approach to the intertendinous bursa is not possible
- •Understand that the ICB and GCB function as one connected structure — infection in one compartment likely involves the other, affecting treatment strategy
- •Be aware of individual anatomical variation (particularly lateral communication and plantar reflections) that may influence clinical presentation and diagnostic imaging interpretation
Key Findings
- •ICB and GCB communicate medially in 100% of limbs and laterally in 50% of limbs, functioning as a single synovial structure with 2 compartments
- •SCB communicates with ICB/GCB in 39% of limbs, expanding potential infection pathways
- •ICB extends mean 7.0 cm distal and 9.6 cm proximal to the tuber calcanei
- •SCB occupies a more distal anatomical position than previously described in the literature