Hemodynamic Events in Laminitis

Abstract

The anatomy of the distal limb creates unique challenges with regards to blood flow regulation, specifically regarding venous return from the hoof capsule to the heart. It is thought that palmar digital veins may contribute to the regulation of blood flow via the maintenance of vascular tone. Recognizing the need to measure lamellar blood flow in horses, investigators have employed several techniques including laser Doppler flowmetry, arteriography, nuclear scintigraphy, thermography, and infrared spectroscopy. Laser Doppler flowmetry has been used in studies to detect fluctuations in lamellar blood flow during the prodromal stages of black walnut extract (BWE)-induced laminitis in horses an..