Equine Laminitis Radiographs

Radiographic studies are an essential component in evaluation of horses with laminitis.

Equine laminitis radiographs.

Hunt dvm ms diplomate acvs author s address. X rays correctly called radiographs are essential for assessing changes in the feet following laminitis and should clearly show the relationship between the hoof capsule and the internal structures of the foot to help the hoofcare professional. Horses suffering from laminitis are identified by observation physical exam and careful examination of the hooves. The standard radiographs that should be obtained to aid assessment of horses with laminitis are the lateromedial horizontal dorsopalmar and dorsal 45 proximal palmarodistal oblique views.

The standard radiographs that should be obtained to aid assessment of horses with laminitis are the lateromedial horizontal dorsopalmar and dorsal 45 proximal palmarodistal oblique views. Practical clinical considerations robert j. Radiographs will show how much rotation of the coffin bone has occurred. Equine laminitis radiography chronic laminitic horses radiograph angles 1.

Signs of laminitis vary with the severity of the damage to the lamella and whether the laminitis episode is acute hours or days old or chronic lasting more than a week the most common sign that you would see is lameness ranging in severity from a minor head nod to non weight bearing and inability of the horse to stand up having the appearance of walking on eggshells or saw horse stance. Chronic laminitis may also be called founder. Radiographs x rays are incredibly beneficial in making a diagnosis and the findings can also help with estimating the chance for successful outcome. Thickness of dorsal wall and sole.

Radiographs x rays will reveal the exact position of the pedal bone within the foot relative to the pastern bones and to the. Chronic laminitis is primarily a radiographic diagnosis meaning that it is made based on x ray findings. Evaluation of horses with laminitis. Your equine practitioner can provide you with information about your horse s condition based on radiographs x rays and the animal s response to treatment.

The subacute phase may precede full recovery may relapse into acute laminitis or may progress to chronic laminitis in which radiographic changes are present.