Anatomical considerations of the distal interphalangeal joint of sheep

The ligamentous attachments and the extent of the capsule of the distal interphalangeal joint of sheep was studied using both dissection and radiographic techniques. The distal interphalangeal joint was considered to be most vulnerable to infection and trauma on the axial, or interdigital, aspect where the joint capsule protrudes above the coronary border. In sheep the interdigital ligament and each proximal collateral sesamoidean ligament help to unite the two digits: a role performed in cattle by the cruciate ligament.