How to Perform a Modified Standing Deep Digital Flexor Tenotomy at the Level of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint

A modified standing deep digital flexor (DDF) tenotomy at the level of the proximal interphalangeal joint is an effective treatment option for horses with refractory acute or chronic laminitis. Performing the tenotomy at this level increases the release of the tendon compared with the effect of performing the procedure at a mid-metacarpal location. The modified procedure is technically easier to perform because of the size of the incision, the use of local anesthesia, and the ease of isolating the DDF tendon before transection. The modified technique also provides an alternative approach to repeating the transection in the mid-metacarpal region should surgery fail to produce satisfactory results. Authors’ address: J. T. Vaughan Large Animal Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama 36849; e-mail: [email protected]. © 2009 AAEP.