Distal Sesamoidean Ligaments of the Horse
  by Robert N. Oglesby DVM

With improved diagnostic imaging techniques injury to the distal sesamoidean ligaments is becoming recognized as a more common cause of lameness in horses than was previously thought. Most often the oblique (middle) and/or straight (superficial) distal sesamoidean ligaments are involved. Desmitis (strain or sprain) of the deep and and short ligaments is a very rarely diagnosed condition. The location of the distal sesamoidean ligaments is deep to the flexor tendons which makes diagnosis from clinical exam alone difficult. Following localization of the lameness to the pastern it requires ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging to visualize the damage and it's extent.

This article describes these ligaments and has images of the ligaments to give a better understanding of the anatomy of this area.

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