I40 THE SURGICAL ANATOMY OF THE HORSE 



the tendon is completely ruptured. Occasionally the tendon of the 

 flexor perforatus is also involved. 



The symptoms presented are in this case also somewhat characteristic, 

 and diagnosis is not difficult. The part lends itself readily to accurate 

 manipulation and palpation. Contrary to what we found in the case of 

 the flexor metatarsi, the animal is now absolutely unable to bear weight 

 on the limb. The hock becomes let down to a much lower level than that 

 of the other limb. It is markedly flexed, as are the joints below it. The 

 stifle is fully extended, and the animal stands with its foot resting on the toe. 



Occasionally the tendon does not give way, but the summit of 

 the tuber calcis becomes snapped off. This may be readily detected by 

 manipulation. In other cases the tendon is torn away from the bone. 



Prognosis is not usually as favourable as in rupture of the flexor 

 metatarsi, and should be guarded. Complete rest should be provided, 

 and the animal prevented from flexing the hock, in order that the severed 

 ends may be kept in apposition. 



Although cases have been recorded where the severed ends of the 

 divided tendon have reunited in from two to three months without 

 slinging, it is usual to place the animal in slings, since otherwise the 

 whole of the weight in this part of the body becomes thrown upon the 

 opposite hind limb, and laminitis of the opposite foot, and other compli- 

 cations, are likely to occur. The movements of the hock should be 

 restricted by strapping with adhesive plaster. The most unfavourable 

 cases are those in which the tendon is torn away from its insertion into 

 the tuber calcis. 



THE TENDON OF THE FLEXOR PERFORATUS— 

 LUXATION 



This tendon, which is at first placed in front of that of the gastroc- 

 nemius muscle, twists round the latter and becomes superposed to it in 

 the manner already indicated. Just before the gastrocnemius tendon 



