Where is the ultrasound probe placed to evaluate the proximal suspensory ligament in the hind limb?

Where is the ultrasound probe placed to evaluate the proximal suspensory ligament in the hind limb?

• A. Along the lateral cannon bone at the proximal suspensory region.
• B. On the dorsal aspect of the fetlock joint.
• C. On the palmar aspect of the distal phalanx.
• D. On the medial carpus.

Answer: (A)

The proximal suspensory ligament runs along the cannon bone in the proximal region, and the best window to see it with ultrasound is along the lateral aspect of the cannon bone just proximal to the fetlock. Placing the probe there lines up with the ligament as it proceeds toward the proximal sesamoids, giving a clear view of the ligament fibers and any signs of injury or inflammation. Imaging from other sites would target different structures: the dorsal fetlock area would show extensor tendons and joint structures, the palmar aspect of the distal phalanx targets the navicular apparatus, and the medial carpus images carpal ligaments and bones rather than the proximal suspensory ligament.