Which structure is transected during inferior (distal) check ligament desmotomy in horse?

Which structure is transected during inferior (distal) check ligament desmotomy in horse?

• A. Deep digital flexor tendon
• B. Superficial digital flexor tendon
• C. Accessory ligament of deep digital flexor tendon
• D. Annular ligament

Answer: (C)

The inferior (distal) check ligament desmotomy targets the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon. This distal check ligament normally tethers the deep digital flexor tendon, limiting its distal movement during weight bearing. By transecting this structure, you release that restraint, allowing the tendon to glide more freely and reducing excessive tension that contributes to tendon injury or bowing. The other structures listed are not the target of this procedure: the deep or superficial digital flexor tendons themselves aren’t cut here, and the annular ligament surrounds the tendons at the carpus/pastern but is not the structure being transected.

The inferior (distal) check ligament desmotomy targets the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon. This distal check ligament normally tethers the deep digital flexor tendon, limiting its distal movement during weight bearing. By transecting this structure, you release that restraint, allowing the tendon to glide more freely and reducing excessive tension that contributes to tendon injury or bowing. The other structures listed are not the target of this procedure: the deep or superficial digital flexor tendons themselves aren’t cut here, and the annular ligament surrounds the tendons at the carpus/pastern but is not the structure being transected.