Digital X-ray and ultrasound on location

Thanks to the mobile X-ray machine, it is possible to take X-rays on location. Bone structures, bone changes and joints are visualized. It is used in practice for X-ray examinations, screening of OCD, laminitis, lameness and dental problems.

We can also make ultrasound images on location using the ultrasound device.

X-rays

During an X-ray examination, 20 images are taken as standard, from the hooves to the knees. The bones and joints must be free of (serious) bone changes, fractures and OCDs. OCDs are caused by the ossification of cartilage in a joint. This mainly occurs up to the age of 12 months. The joint becomes weaker and it is possible that the piece of bone wanders around in the joint, resulting in additional damage and inflammation. Depending on the location in the joint and the future of the horse, surgery may or may not be necessary. Normally, OCD screening takes place in horses at 18 months. If horses develop one or more swollen joints at a younger age, it is advisable to take X-rays sooner. The younger the horse, the better the joint will recover after OCD surgery.

In severe laminitis it is advisable to take x-rays, especially when there is a suspicion of a hoof tilt. X-rays show tilting, subsidence and lip formation of the hoof bone. The degrees of tilt can also be measured. This is useful for recovery and prognosis.

Dental X-rays are X-rays of the teeth, they are mainly made in complicated cases such as EOTRH (see dentistry) or jaw fractures.

Ultrasound

The ultrasound device is mainly used in reproduction and orthopedics. In the spring, the mares are scanned daily for reproduction to monitor the follicle, provided the mare is in heat. This allows the moment of ovulation (= ovulation) to be determined in order to inseminate at the right time. Both the ovaries and the uterus are visible with ultrasound and various structures can be distinguished. If the mare has difficulty becoming pregnant, the uterus can be checked for cysts and free fluid with ultrasound. The mare is scanned 12 to 16 days after insemination to check for pregnancy. Twins must of course be avoided.

With ultrasound we can also check for tendon injuries. In particular injuries to the superficial flexor, deep flexor and intermediate tendon are visible with the ultrasound device. By getting a good picture of the injury, the treatment and prognosis can be better estimated.