Measurement of radiographic parameters of front feet hooves in Caspian horses

Diagnosis of lameness requires proper interpretation of clinical examination and radiologic findings. The aim of this study was to determine a normal radiographic features of the distal phalanx in mature sound Caspian horse. A total of 10 mature Caspian horse were selected. They include 5 mares and 5 stallions. All horses were approximately similar in size and weight with the same training management. Radiography of the distal phalanx and associated soft-tissue structures of the front feet of horses were performed. Lateromedial(LM) radiographic views of each front distal phalanx were used to measure important distances, angles and ratios of the hoof wall. All the measurements from lateromedial radiographs were multiplied by the magnification correction factor to gain the actual distances. Mean ± SD thickness of the soft tissues dorsal to the proximal and distal aspect of distal phalanx was 12.55±0.39 and 11.73±0.71 mm. the average of D founder was 8.17 mm. There was no statistical difference between the right and left digits. Normal parameters of the Caspian horse were obtained and compared with ponies and warm-blooded horses. The parameters obtained from the Caspian horse were lower than warm-blooded horses and ponies, which could be explained due to their smaller feet. These differences highlight the importance of studying morphometric factors in different breeds.

Measurement of radiographic parameters of front feet hooves in Caspian horses Keywords:

Caspian horse , Front feet , Hoof , Measurement , Radiology