What is digital ultrasonography for horses?
The UF Equine Lameness & Imaging service uses ultrasonography in order to view problems associated with poor performance or lame horses. Ultrasonography is imaging in real-time of soft tissue injuries such as tendon and ligaments, as well as joint and bone evaluation in certain areas. Ultrasound also has the ability to assess blood flow through vessels, organs and diseased tissues. Digital ultrasonography is ultrasound using a computerized or digital machine.
How does digital ultrasonography work?
Digital ultrasonography uses sonar, or sound waves, which permeate the parts of the body being imaged. The sound waves travel through soft tissues, generating highly detailed images of structures such as internal organs, tendons and ligaments. There is no radiation exposure in ultrasonography as sound waves are used.
How can digital ultrasonography help lameness in my horse?
Digital ultrasonography can be used in the localization, diagnosis and treatment of a lameness issue. Because the modality is non-invasive and provides real-time images, digital ultrasonography is extremely helpful in providing further information to examine and monitor progress of the injury.
Who can perform ultrasonography?
Even though many ultrasonographic units are mobile, a licensed veterinarian must perform the imaging procedure for accurate diagnosis. Knowledge of the structures being imaged and use of the machine are necessary to accurately identify and image structures within the body associated with lameness and other diseases.
