Equine Diagnostic Imaging
The Equine Referral Hospital has a purpose-built diagnostic imaging unit that comprises computed radiography, ultrasonography, scintigraphy, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging within one building. All images are stored digitally and the building provides workspace for retrieving, viewing, manipulating and printing all images centrally, as well as electronically distributing imaging around the site and to distant locations (referral practices).
Computed Tomography (CT)
The RVC is one of a few equine hospitals in the world that has the facilities to perform computed tomographic studies in horses. It has a computed tomography suite especially designed for horses with an anaesthetic induction box and a custom-built table to support horses. This imaging modality is especially valuable for the diagnosis of foot and head problems in the horse.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
The Equine Referral Hospital has a 0.27 Tesla magnet enabling MRI of the equine limbs under standing sedation. MRI has revolutionised the diagnosis of foot lameness in horses by enabling detailed examination of the soft tissues (tendons and ligaments) within the hoof capsule which cannot be visualised using radiography. Standing MRI can be also used to image up to and including the carpus and tarsus.
Scintigraphy
Scintigraphy is an advanced diagnostic imaging tool, mainly used for the diagnosis of challenging orthopaedic problems in the horse. Horses are injected with a radioactive substance, which accumulates in areas of disease. This is visualised by a gamma camera and analysed with dedicated computer software. In addition to its use in lameness diagnostics the RVC has pioneered its application for the diagnosis of abdominal disorders such as abscesses and tumours in the horse.
Radiography
Radiography is the mainstay of imaging in horses and the RVC has a state of the art, purpose-built x-ray suite, equipped with powerful, custom-designed x-ray equipment essential for taking high-quality radiographs in horses. All radiographs are acquired digitally allowing for digital enhancement and storage of images and minimising exposure to horse and people.
The Hospital has two mobile X-ray machines for use in the stable on horses that are unable to walk to the x-ray suites. These are also available to the ambulatory practice to acquire radiographs in practice.
Ultrasonography
The Equine Hospital has extensive expertise in ultrasonography of horses and has several ultrasound machines to suit specific purposes. Two hospital based systems are used for advanced clinical applications, including orthopaedic, abdominal and thoracic ultrasonography. Four portable units are available for large animal reproduction use and for ambulatory orthopaedics.