Superficial digital flexor tendon [SDFT]

On equine thoracic limb, the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) arises from the superficial digital flexor muscle at the level of the carpus.

Then the tendon combines with the accessory ligament (superior check ligament), passes distally on the caudal aspect through the carpal canal.

On the metacarpus, the superficial digital flexor tendon wraps around the deep digital flexor tendon, forming the manica flexoria.

On the level of the middle phalanx, the superficial digital flexor tendon is enclosed with the deep digital flexor tendon into the digital sheath.

Distally, the superficial digital flexor tendon divides into two branches (termed “distal branches” by some authors like JM Denoix, opposite to the sagittal branch of the proximal part).

The distal branches insert on the lateral and medial eminences of the middle phalanx (and also some fibers insert on the lateral aspect of the proximal phalanx).

• Origin: Superficial digital flexor muscle on the medial humeral epicondyle
• Insertion: Middle phalanx
• Action: Flexes the proximal and middle phalangeal joints, stabilises metacarpophalangeal joint

sources : wikivet (https://en.wikivet.net/Tendons_-_Horse_Anatomy)