Ex vivo study shows novel, rapid, suture-free tenotomy technique for the equine deep digital flexor tendon.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the feasibility of a novel thread-transecting technique for the tenotomy of the equine deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT).

ANIMALS: 39 equine distal limb specimens.

METHODS: Under ultrasonographic guidance, a surgical thread was percutaneously placed around the DDFT through 2 needle punctures (lateral and medial) using a Tuohy needle in equine limbs (22 forelimbs, 17 hindlimbs). The DDFT was transected by a back-and-forth motion of the thread until the loop emerged from the entry puncture site. Each specimen was dissected and assessed for completeness of transection and iatrogenic damage under direct visualization. Descriptive statistics were reported.

RESULTS: Complete DDFT transection was achieved in all 39 limbs, taking an average of 8.6 minutes per procedure. Iatrogenic damage to surrounding structures occurred in 17 (44%) limbs, with 6 (15%) limbs having more than 1 structure damaged. Damage to the communicating branch of the palmar or plantar nerves was the most commonly seen.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: DDFT tenotomy in equine limb specimens was effectively performed using a novel thread-transecting technique. The procedure is quick, and no suturing is needed, but damage to surrounding structures is possible. Further assessment of the procedure and clinical significance of its potential iatrogenic damage in clinical cases is needed.