Age Related Histological Changes of Flexor Tendons of Forelimb in the Buffalo Bull (Bubalus bubalis)

Animal gait is dependent mainly on its limb musculature, ligaments and tendons which are appreciable superficially. Body conformation of Bovines and their management practices in India make these anatomical structures prone to injuries. In the present study, post-natal age-related microscopic features of Superficial Digital Flexor Tendon (SDFT) and Deep Digital Flexor Tendon (DDFT) of the forelimb of buffalo bull were conducted. Chondrocyte-like cells were noticed at myo-tendinous junction which increased in number with advancing age from GI (1-3 yrs) to G3 (greater than 6 yrs). At myo-tendinous insertions isolated clusters of chondrocytes like cells along with scattered cells and adipose tissue were seen in G II (3-6 yrs) and GIII. Collagen crimps reduced with advancing age. DDFT had short stumpy muscle fibers oriented in different directions at myotendinous junction. At mid metacarpus the collagen crimps were noticed which decreased with the increasing age. Adipocytes were seen along connective tissue sheaths surrounding the tendon from mid metacarpal level to insertion point in both tendons.