When using imaging procedures such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), scintigraphy, X-ray and ultrasound in equine medicine, various factors must be taken into account:
Computertomographie (CT)
Field of application: CT is particularly suitable for the assessment of bone structures, teeth, nasal sinuses and soft tissue.
Preparation: Horses often have to be sedated or anaesthetized as they have to stand still during the examination.
Observation: CT scans provide detailed cross-sectional images that are helpful in the diagnosis of complex fractures or dental diseases.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Field of application: MRI is particularly characterized by its detailed imaging of soft tissue such as tendons and ligaments.
Preparation: A general anesthesia is usually required for an MRI scan.
Observation: MRI provides very detailed images, which are essential for the diagnosis of soft tissue injuries.
Szintigraphy
Field of application: It is often used to identify stress fractures or inflammations that are not visible in other imaging techniques.
Preparation: Involves the injection of a radioactive tracer that accumulates in areas of increased metabolic activity.
Observation: Enables the function of certain organs, structures and bones to be assessed.
X-ray
Field of application: X-ray images are fundamental for the assessment of bone structures and joints.
Preparation: Sedation may be necessary, especially in restless animals.
Observation: X-rays are fast and relatively inexpensive, but offer limited assessment of soft tissue structures.
Ultrasound
Field of application: Ideal for the examination of soft tissue, especially tendons and ligaments, as well as organs.
Preparation: Sedation may be required; the affected area often needs to be sheared and cleaned.
Observation: Provides real-time images.
With any of these procedures, it is important to consider the welfare of the horse and ensure that it is calm and comfortable during the examination. In addition, the choice of procedure should be made based on the specific diagnostic requirements and availability of equipment. The use of these technologies requires specialised knowledge and experience, so it is important that they are carried out by qualified veterinary staff.
Overview
Procedure
Advantages
Restrictions
CT
- Detailed cross-sectional images of bones
- Suitable for complex bone structures
- 3D reconstructions possible
- Less effective for soft tissue compared to MRI
- Sedation/anesthesia often necessary
- Radiation exposure
MRI
- Excellent visualisation of soft tissue
- Accurate images of tendons, ligaments
- Detailed visualisation of cartilage
- Time-consuming
- general anesthesia required
- Not suitable for all body regions
Szintigraphy
- Early detection of bone changes
- Whole-body imaging possible
- Identification of multiple/subtle lesions
- Less detail than CT/MRI
- Limited soft tissue visualisation
- Use of radioactive substances
Ultrasound
- Ideal for soft tissues such as eyes, ligaments and organs
- Non-invasive, no radiation exposure
- Cost-effective examination
- Limited penetration depth and resolution
- Only suitable for bones to a limited extent
- Requires direct skin contact
- Two-dimensional images
X-ray
- Fast and effective for bone structures
- Suitable for fractures, joint diseases
- Accessible and relatively inexpensive
- Limited soft tissue imaging
- Two-dimensional images
- Radiation exposure