euthanized 4 weeks post-surgery, whereas in the long- term study, 6 horses were further rehabilitated until 6 months and then euthanized. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation was performed blinded on all cadaver limbs.
3. Results and Discussion
Transverse lesion size on ultrasound was signifi- cantly smaller in the treatment group after 2 and 3 months (P .026 and P .015). The enlargement of the circumference and cross-sectional area of the lesion over time was significantly lower in the short- term treatment group (P .016 and P .010). During treatment, laser treated branches showed a significantly increased Doppler signal (P .001).
On MRI, both short- and long-term groups, the mean signal was significantly lower (P .006) and the cross-sectional area of the lesions significantly smaller (P .002) in the treated branches. These diagnostic imaging parameters indicate significant enhanced healing of a suspensory branch lesion af- ter high-power laser therapy.
Acknowledgments
Declaration of Ethics The Authors have adhered to the Principles of Veter- inary Medical Ethics of the AVMA.
Conflict of Interest The Authors have no conflicts of interest.
