A

abaxial sesamoid nerve block

The application of a regional nerve block to the lateral and/or medial branch of the digital nerve (Nervus digitalis palmaris/plantaris medialis/lateralis) at the base of the proximal sesamoid bones where the vascular bundles can be palpated (the nerve is located directly palmar/plantar to this bundle).

D

digital nerve

The nerves responsible for the innervation of the digit. Divided into a lateral (N. digitalis palmaris/plantaris lateralis) and a medial (N. digitalis palmaris/plantaris medialis) branch.

A regional nerve block used during lameness examination. The nerves blocked are the medial and lateral branches of the palmar/plantardigital nerve. The block can be applied at various positions on the pastern; the structures desensitised depend on the exact placement of the anaesthetic. Most frequently used sites of injection

1. Applied just above the collateral cartilages

2. At mid pastern, just behind the palpable vascular bundle.

F

facial nerve

A cranialnerve (nerve that originates from the brain rather than the spinal cord) that provides sensory and motor innervation to a large part of the facial muscles and skin.

N

nerve

Bundles of nerve fibres (peripheral axons) surrounded by non-neuronal Schwann cells that transmit impulses throughout the body. Nerves are a part of the peripheral nervous system.

R

radial nerve paralysis

Paralysis of the radial nerve leads to a loss of function of the muscles involved in forelimbextension (protraction). See also 'radial paralysis stance'.

regional nerve block

The blocking of the function of a peripheral nerve through the application of a local anaesthetic into the immediate vicinity of the nerve. This method is an important component of a lameness examination.

F

D

N

R

D

R