Podometric and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study of The Forelimb Feet in Normal Donkeys (Equus Asinus)

The study provided a standard database of normal podometric characteristics and magnetic resonance image (MRI) of the front feet in donkeys. podometric study was performed on twenty non lamed donkeys and podometric measurements for both front hooves were recorded using graduated tape and image analysis (Image-J). MRI was performed on twelve cadaver specimens. T1 weighted spoiled gradient echo (SPGR) and T2 weighted gradient echo (GRE) in sagittal, dorsal and transverse planes was done on recently euthanized cadaver. Results indicated some podometric differences between horse and donkey. On T1 weighted MRI images, the cancellous bone in the distal phalanx (DP) and the lower part of middle phalanx (MP) had intermediate signal intensity and appeared light grey while the cortical bone of such phalanges were hypo-intense and appeared darker. The synovial fluid appeared with low signal intensity and black in color. Deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) within the foot appeared bilobate and its ensheathed fibers had low signal intensity with clearly demarcated margins. On T2 weighted images, all cancellous bones within the hoof, had intermediate signal intensity. The signal intensity of DP appeared heterogonous and ranged between black to white. DDFT appeared black in color. The articular cartilage of the coffin joint had an intermediate signal intensity and was distinguished from the synovial fluid which appeared hyper-intense and bright in such sequence. Donkeys were not similar to horse. MRI of donkeys’ foot provided an accurate noninvasive method for evaluation of the donkey's foot which help clinicians to perform better diagnoses.