Ultrasonographic determination of anatomical measurements of tendinous structures and palmar metacarpals ligaments in Colombian Creole donkeys

Objective. To provide reference values for anatomical measurements of tendinous structures and metacarpal ligaments in Colombian Creole donkeys using ultrasonography as a measurement tool. Materials and methods. Ultrasonographic examination of the tendons and ligaments of the palmar metacarpal region of limbs was performed in 15 clinically healthy donkeys. The variables to be measured were: cross-sectional area (cm2), lateral medial width (ALM) (cm) and dorsal palmar thickness (EDP) (cm). Results. It was found that there is no difference in the measurements between the two members or in relation to sex. In addition, it was found that the structure with the largest area in the proximal areas (1A and 1B) was the suspensory ligament (0.548 cm2), and in the distal ones (2A and 2B) the deep digital flexor tendon (0.468 cm2). Conclusions. Anatomical measurements of the tendinous structures and the palmar metacarpal ligaments in Colombian Creole donkeys are similar to those found in the international literature. Reference values for anatomical (morphometric) measurements of palmar metacarpal tendons and ligaments in Colombian Creole donkeys were presented.