Radiological anatomy of distal phalanx of front foot in the pure Iranian Arabian horse

Background: Among the different breeds of horses, Asil horses with a five thousand year history have played an important role in human life. This study was designed as a result of the lack of information about the normal radiographic anatomy of this breed. Materials and methods: Radiography of the distal phalanx and associated soft-tissue structures of the front feet of 10 healthy pure Iranian Arabian horses was performed on lateromedial radiographic projection to determine normal radiographic morphometry of this part. There were no problems in their limbs and in their history. Results: Obtained radiograph of each front distal phalanx was used to measure important distances, angles and ratios of the hoof wall. There was no significant difference between left and right digits for any radiographic determination. Conclusions: Measurements of this study differed from those reported in other breeds, so it can be used in the future as reference values for diagnosis of laminitis in front feet of Iranian Arabian horses.