SOFT-TISSUE INJURIES OF THE TARSUS

Common soft tissue injuries of the equine tarsus are (traumatic) tarsa l sheath distension, extratendovaginal cystic of solid masses, septic intertendinous calcaneal bursitis, or aseptic distension of this bursa caused by intrabursal hemorrhage, dislocation of the SDFT or associat ed with gastrocnemius tendinitis. Other common abnormalities are tarso crural joint ligamentous injury and various ''curby'' swellings. Routi ne radiography visualizes associated bony changes. Contrast radiograph y provides a clear survey of bursa, tendon sheaths, and extratendovagi nal fluid-filled cavities. Ultrasonography effectively demonstrates te ndinous and Ligamentous injury.