FAQ’s
When would I perform Standing Equine Leg CT?
- Hallmarq’s Standing Equine Leg CT utilizes cone beam technology to optimize images of the distal limb, instead of fan-beam CT, commonly used to image the head.
- It is of benefit in cases where lameness has been localized to the region of foot to fetlock, and primary bone injury is suspected.
- Sub-millimeter resolution images, combined with the ability to perform 3D reconstruction, add detailed information to bony pathology suspected on radiographs.
- This assists with surgical planning and, where a contrast agent is additionally used, can offer information about the articular surface of a joint.
- In cases such as osteochondral fragmentation or fracture, cone-beam CT clearly illustrates pathology, eliminating the issue of superimposition of multiple structures which can contribute to occasional uncertainty when interpreting alternative imaging modalities.
What are the benefits of Standing Equine Leg CT compared to conventional CT ?
- Standing Equine Leg CT is a non-invasive, comparatively low radiation technique allowing images to be taken of a standing patient in a matter of minutes.
- A scan takes just 60 seconds, with the entire procedure complete in around fifteen minutes.
- For horses where general anesthesia is inadvisable, either due to the suspected pathology causing lameness or other concurrent issues, imaging can be performed while the patient is only mildly sedated.
- Radiation dose is comparable to digital radiography enabling both operator and handler to easily remain with the patient whilst imaging is completed.
Can I refer for Standing Equine Leg CT?
Yes, CT is considered advanced imaging and while the Hallmarq Standing Equine Leg CT is accessible to most practices, it is also possible to refer patients. The referral clinic will need to know the case history and any previous diagnostic results. After a CT scan, they will provide an interpretation and radiological report. Other options may also be available by arrangement:
- suggestions regarding treatment and prognosis
- an explanation to the client in appropriate language
- further case management or treatment
If you have Standing Equine Leg CT available at your clinic, but require interpretation, images can easily be sent for teleradiology.
“The standing leg cone-beam CT system from Hallmarq provides a safe, and convenient diagnostic modality to help produce a definitive diagnosis and guide the best treatment plan for equine patients. It also provides us with a valuable complementary tool in surgical planning when used in conjunction with our standing MRI”
Jonathon Dixon, BVetMed, Dipl ECVDI, MRCVS
Rainbow Equine Hospital