Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Proximal Metacarpal and Metatarsal Regions

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging provides a new imaging modality to evaluate the osseous and soft tissue structures in the equine limb. The metacarpal and metatarsal region, specifically the proximal aspect, has proven to be a difficult area to assess with radiography and ultrasonography due to the multiple vascular, soft tissue, and osseous structures in this area. MR evaluation of this region enables diagnosis of lesions within the suspensory ligament, the superficial and deep digital flexor (DDFT) tendons, the accessory ligament of the DDFT, the extensor tendons, as well as inflammatory changes associated with the bones of the metacarpal and metatarsal regions. This chapter provides information regarding MR imaging of this region and examples of pathologic change identified using this imaging modality.