INTERPHALANGEAL JOINTS 249 
margin of the articular surface. The abaxial pair have a similar course, but are 
thinner, and end on the corresponding third sesamoid. An elastic band crosses the 
front of the second phalanx obliquely, from the distal end of the first phalanx to the 
extensor process of the third phalanx. 
The cruciate or distal interdigital ligaments (Ligg. cruciata interdigitalia) are 
two strong bands which limit the separation of the digits. They are attached above 
to the abaxial eminences on the proximal ends of the second phalanges (blending 
with the collateral ligaments), cross the deep flexor tendon obliquely, and reach the 
Fic. 258.—LicaMents anp Tenpons oF Dicits oF Pic; Fic. 259.—LiGAMENTS AND TENDONS OF DIGITS OF 
Vorar VIEW. Doe, Hixp Limp; Votar View. 
a, Superficial flexor tendon; 6b, deep flexor tendon; }’, a, a’, Superficial flexor tendon; 6, tendon to 
branches of b to accessory digits; c, ec’, annular ligaments; large pad; c, lumbricales muscles; d, interossei 
d-d’", ligaments of accessory digits; e, cruciate interdigital muscles; e, f, annular ligaments at metatarso- 
ligaments; /f, /’, spiral band around the flexor tendons of phalangeal joints; g, suspensory ligament of large 
the accessory digits; g, abductor of accessory digit. (Ellen- pad; A, digital annular ligaments; 1, deep flexor 
berger-Baum, Anat. d. Haustiere.) tendon; k, distal sesamoid; 7, suspensory ligament 
of k; m, suspensory ligament of digital pad; n, 
= digital pads. (Ellenberger-Baum, Anat. d. Haus- 
tiere.) 
interdigital space, where they intercross and blend. Most of the fibers end on the 
distal sesamoid of the opposite side, but some are attached to the interdigital as- 
pect of the second phalanx and the distal sesamoid of the same side. In the sheep 
there is, instead of the foregoing, a transverse ligament which is attached on either 
side to the interdigital surfaces of the second and third phalanges and the distal sesa- 
moid bone. It is related below to the skin, above to a pad of fat. 
Pig.—The interphalangeal joints of the chief digits resemble in general those 
of the ox. The distal interdigital ligament resembles, however, that of the sheep, 
and is intimately adherent to the skin. There is, besides, a remarkable arrange- 
