The =lateral ligaments=, =external= and =internal= (Ligamentum collaterale ulnare, radiale) are partially divided into two layers: the =superficial layer= arises from the eminence on the side of the distal end of the large metacarpal bone, and passes straight to the rough lateral area below the margin of the articular surface of the first phalanx; the =deep layer=, shorter and much stronger, arises in the lateral depression on the distal end of the metacarpal bone, and passes obliquely downward and backward to be inserted into the outer surface of the sesamoid and the proximal end of the first phalanx. The capsule is further strengthened by a layer of oblique fibers which pass over the lateral ligament on either side and end on the extensor tendon and the proximal extremity of the first phalanx. It may properly be regarded as fascia rather than ligament. [Illustration: FIG. 150.—LIGAMENTS AND TENDONS OF DISTAL PART OF LIMB OF HORSE. Mc.III, Large metacarpal bone; Ph.I, first phalanx; Ph.II, second phalanx; Ph.III, third phalanx; 1, deep flexor tendon; 2, band from first phalanx to plantar cushion. (After Schmaltz, Atlas d. Anat. d. Pferdes.) ] =Movements.=—These are of the nature of flexion and extension, the axis of motion passing through the upper attachments of the lateral ligaments. In the ordinary standing position the joint is in a state of partial =dorsal flexion=, the articular angle (in front) being about 140° to 150°. (In the hind limb it is about 5° greater.) Diminution of this angle (sometimes termed “overextension”) is normally very limited on account of the resistance offered by the sesamoidean apparatus, but it varies considerably in amount in different subjects. =Volar flexion= is limited only by contact of the heels with the metacarpus. During volar flexion a small amount of lateral flexion is possible. THE SESAMOIDEAN LIGAMENTS Under this head will be described a number of important ligaments which are connected with the sesamoid bones and form a sort of stay apparatus or brace. The =intersesamoidean ligament= (Ligamentum intersesamoideum) not only fills the space between and unites the sesamoid bones, but also extends above them, entering into the formation of the articular surface of the fetlock joint. Other facts in regard to it have been given above. The =lateral sesamoidean ligaments=, outer and inner (Ligamenta sesamoidea ulnare et radiale), arise on the abaxial surface of each sesamoid bone, pass forward, and divide into two branches, one of which ends in the depression on the distal end of the large metacarpal bone, the other on the eminence on the proximal end of the first phalanx. They are partly covered by the branches of the suspensory or superior sesamoidean ligament. [Illustration: FIG. 151.—DEEP DISSECTION OF DISTAL PART OF RIGHT FORE LIMB OF HORSE, SHOWING JOINTS AND LIGAMENTS, POSTERIOR VIEW.