MRI
The initials MRI Stand for magnetic resonance imaging.  MRI is a precise and focal imaging tool that produces images of all tissue types; bone, tendons, ligaments, and fluid.  It does not image large areas of the body in a single session.
A thorough lameness exam, diagnostic nerve blocks, and other imaging modalities must narrow the likely source of pain to a small area before turning to MRI.  This technique then provides high-resolution images of the bone and soft tissue of the area of interest.

Magnetic resonance imaging uses the body’s natural magnetic properties to produce detailed images of the tissues.  The part of the limb being imaged is placed within a strong magnetic field and stimulated by radio-frequency pulses.
A unique radio-frequency signal, based on each tissue’s magnetic characteristics, is emitted in response to the pulses.  These radio-frequency signals are collected and analyzed by computers to form the image.

Is MRI painful?
Because the MRI is a non-invasive diagnostic technique, it is not painful.  The horse is given only a light sedative to minimize motion during the procedure and to ensure safety for the horse and technician.  Neither the horse nor people feel any sensation when near the magnet.

How is the procedure performed?
On arrival, the imaging technician will examine the horse.  A catheter is then placed in the jugular vein for use during sedation.  The front or hind shoes must be removed depending on whether a front or hind limb is to be imaged. (The metal in the shoes will degrade the quality of the image if in close proximity to the magnet.)  Next, a small copper coil is placed around the limb.  This coil detects the magnetic change.  A repetitive clicking sound is heard while the images are being collected. Ten to twelve standard image sequences per site are acquired.  Each sequence takes several minutes to collect the data and reconstruct the image on the computer.   Please note: After the MRI exam is completed the hooves are taped to prevent chipping. If you desire to have the shoes replaced, notify the office at the time of scheduling.

How long does it take to perform an MRI?
Approximately four and half hours should be allocated to image one area of the body.  One-hour preparation, one-hour sedation recovery time and one-hour twenty minutes per site. The horse should arrive at least one hour prior to the appointment time the day of the procedure and may leave the same day unless scheduled for other procedures.

What should I bring to my appointment?
Please make available your horse’s medical history, radiographs, and reports from the previous exams.  The radiologists may wish to review these documents before the interpretation of the MRI images. You or your regular veterinarian should provide this information.  You should also be prepared to provide leg bandages, blankets, and instructions for feeding your horse if an over-night stay becomes necessary.

How do I find out the results of the MRI?
Please allow up to three working days for the radiologists to review your horse’s medical history and to interpret the MRI images.  Your veterinarian will receive a written report of the interpretation. Your veterinarian is responsible to inform you of the results of the MRI and how the results will be used to treat your horse. Your veterinarian may suggest you speak directly to the consulting Equest clinician or radiologist. Your veterinarian may have additional procedures performed while your horse is at Equest Diagnostic Imaging Center.

Nuclear Scintigraphy
Nuclear scintigraphy is a very sensitive diagnostic procedure that helps pinpoint areas of bone remodeling and inflammation.  Nuclear scintigraphy is a broad, regional imaging tool and gives the veterinarian general information about where the problem is located.

How is the procedure performed?
The procedure involves the injection of a safe and short acting (24 hr) radioactive material, which is temporarily selectively taken up by the bone.  On arrival, the imaging technician will examine the horse.  A catheter is placed in the jugular vein for sedation and technetium administration.

The horse is positioned in front of a large gamma camera and the soft tissue (pool phase) is collected immediately following the technetium injection (low energy bata emitter). The horse is returned to the stall for two hours to allow time for the isotope to be taken up by the skeletal system.  Following the two-hour break, the bone phase images are collected.

How long does the procedure take?
The procedure typically takes five hours (including the two-hour up-take time).
The horse should arrive no less than one-hour prior to the procedure time and must stay over-night.

Can I visit my horse during the over-night stay?
Yes, you may visit your horse.  For your safety, only the staff is allowed to handle your horse for twenty-four hours.

What should I bring to my appointment?
Please make available your horse’s medical history, radiographs, and reports from previous exams.  You should also be prepared to provide leg bandages, blankets and feeding instructions.

Digital Radiography
The ultra-high resolution of digital radiography brings a new standard to bone evaluation. The advances in digital radiography are as revolutionary to traditional x-rays as color television was to black and white.

How is the procedure performed?
Digital radiographs can be performed at the Clinic or at your facility. The horse is lightly sedated to minimize movement during the procedure. Please be advised if your veterinarian requests a foot series, the shoes are usually removed.

Digital Ultrasound
3-D digital ultrasound is a noninvasive method to evaluate soft tissue structures as well as bone surface remodeling.  Important structures such as tendons and ligaments are routinely evaluated with this technique.  Additionally chest, abdominal and pelvic ultrasound exams can evaluate important internal structures.

How is the procedure performed?
The area of interest is commonly shaved or clipped to achieve maximum contact between the skin and the ultrasound probe. The horse is lightly sedated to minimize movement during the procedure. Images are produced instantly as the probe moves over the skin.  Images are saved on the computer in a special format for diagnostic review.

Gastroendoscopy Information provided by Dr. April Covington. The endoscope is a three-meter long flexible tube with a camera and light source on the tip. Gastroendoscopy is commonly performed to identify gastric ulcers and evaluate other problems of the esophogus and stomach.

How is the procedure performed?
The horse is lightly sedated and the endoscope is passed through the nostril, down the esophagus and into the stomach.  The stomach is then inflated with air and the endoscope displays an image of the stomach lining on a television screen.

What are the pre and post care instructions for my horse?
No feed for 12 hours before gastric endoscopy.  No water for 4-6 hours before gastric endoscopy.  It may be necessary to muzzle the horse if they try to eat bedding (shavings, straw).  Once the gastroendoscopy is complete the horse may eat regular feed after waking up from the sedation.  It is ok to start with a wet bran mash before eating hay.