Carpal collateral ligament desmopathy in three horses.
Authors: Desmaizières L-M, Cauvin E R
Journal: The Veterinary record
Summary
# Carpal Collateral Ligament Desmopathy in Horses: When Injury Progresses to Arthritis Damage to the collateral ligaments of the carpus presents a diagnostic and prognostic challenge, particularly when accompanied by degenerative changes in the joint itself. Desmaizières and Cauvin examined three clinical cases of severe collateral ligament injury using both radiographic and ultrasonographic imaging to characterise the lesions and track their progression. Ultrasonography proved superior for visualising ligamentous damage with accuracy, whilst radiographs primarily documented the secondary osteoarthritic changes developing within the carpal joints. Despite conservative management including extended rest and medical therapy, all three horses remained persistently lame, with joint degeneration progressing rather than stabilising—highlighting the poor prognosis when collateral ligament injury occurs alongside cartilage involvement. The findings suggest that ultrasonography should be routinely incorporated into the diagnostic protocol for suspected carpal injuries, as it enables early detection of ligament pathology before radiographic changes become evident, potentially allowing intervention at a stage where outcomes might be more favourable.
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Practical Takeaways
- •When investigating carpal lameness that doesn't improve with standard rest and treatment, use ultrasound to evaluate collateral ligament integrity—radiography alone may miss these injuries
- •Collateral ligament damage in the carpus tends to be progressive and may require more aggressive intervention than simple rest if degenerative joint disease is also present
- •Poor prognosis for return to work should be discussed with owners when significant collateral ligament damage is confirmed, especially if secondary joint disease is evident
Key Findings
- •Severe collateral ligament damage of the carpus was associated with progressive degenerative joint disease in three horses
- •Ultrasonography proved accurate for diagnosing collateral ligament injuries and should be part of routine carpal injury assessment
- •All three horses remained lame despite prolonged rest and medical management due to ongoing joint disease progression