10/12/2026
Dr. Vincent Bellacicco performing a tenotomy with the help of Dr. Kim Martin.
The deep digital flexor (DDF) tendon runs from behind the knee all the way down to the third phalanx, also known as the coffin bone. Shown in the graphic in yellow, courtesy of the University of Minnesota.
A DDF tenotomy is a surgical procedure to cut the DDF, usually used to sever pain and save the life of a horse with refractory laminitis or chronic hoof problems. The goal of the procedure is to reduce the tension the tendon exerts on the coffin bone. DDF tenotomies can often be performed on the farm under standing sedation.
