Rupture of the Common Digital Extensor Tendon in Horses

Rupture of the common digital extensor tendon (CDET) occurs in foals and might be present when the foal is born or can develop in the first weeks of life. It can be primary or can occur secondary to carpal or fetlock flexural deformities. Affected foals have a characteristic soft/fluid swelling over the dorsolateral aspect of the carpus and distal radius. Ultrasonographic examination is confirmatory.

CDET rupture is treated with stall rest and prevention of secondary tendon contracture via bandaging with or without PVC splints to prevent knuckling, if appropriate. The prognosis for foals that do not have severe contracture or cuboidal bone abnormalities is excellent.