Condition that requires surgical desmotomy of SDF

Condition that requires surgical desmotomy of SDF

• A. SDF desmitis
• B. Club foot
• C. Curly limb disease
• D. Sprained ankle

Answer: (B)

SDF desmotomy targets a flexural deformity caused by contraction of the superficial digital flexor tendon. In a foal with club foot, the SDF tendon excessively pulls the limb into flexion at the fetlock and pastern joints, producing the characteristic bent appearance. By surgically cutting the SDF tendon (desmotomy), the strong flexor pull is relieved, allowing the joints to extend toward normal alignment and improving weight bearing and function. The other conditions don’t primarily involve a tight SDF tendon. Inflammation of the SDF tendon would be managed differently, and curly limb disease or a sprained ankle are not treated by cutting the SDF tendon.

SDF desmotomy targets a flexural deformity caused by contraction of the superficial digital flexor tendon. In a foal with club foot, the SDF tendon excessively pulls the limb into flexion at the fetlock and pastern joints, producing the characteristic bent appearance. By surgically cutting the SDF tendon (desmotomy), the strong flexor pull is relieved, allowing the joints to extend toward normal alignment and improving weight bearing and function.

The other conditions don’t primarily involve a tight SDF tendon. Inflammation of the SDF tendon would be managed differently, and curly limb disease or a sprained ankle are not treated by cutting the SDF tendon.