The Blood Supply to the Canine Palmar Metacarpal Sesamoid Bones

Summary Eleven canine forelimbs were examined using either gross dissection or a modified Spalteholz technique to investigate the blood supply of the palmar metacarpal sesamoid bones. In addition, the sesamoid bones, from two prepared skeletons, were examined for the presence of vascular foramina. Multiple vascular foramina were observed over the sesamoid surface. The most consistent elements of the arterial supply were proximal vessels supplying the axial and dorsal abaxial sides of the bone. In addition, palmar and distal sources often made contributions to the blood supply. Various minor or occasional sources were noted. This study demonstrates that the palmar metacarpal sesamoid bones of the dog have an abundant but highly variable vascular supply. The blood supply of the canine palmar metacarpal sesamoid bones was examined, using several methods, in order to evaluate the possible involvement of vascular compromise in sesamoid disease. It was found that the sesamoid bones have an abundant blood supply which is presumably resistant to disruption.

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