Diagnostic Imaging - Ultrasound

We have 4 ultrasound scanners at the Practice for equine work. These have both linear and sector capabilities, including colour doppler. Ultrasound is an effective way of imaging soft tissues. We have both portable and hospital-based systems.

Our newest MicroMaxx scanner is a small portable digital machine, that can run off battery power. This is a powerful machine and with a penetration of 35cm can scan the largest horse’s heart or abdomen. It also has colour Doppler, allowing us to image the movement of the blood through the heart and allows us to assess “leaky” heart valves.

Ultrasound can be used for a wide range of investigations including:

1. Reproductive work: pregnancy diagnosis, ovary assessment (especially with AI), infertility.
2. Lameness: tendon, joints, fractures and muscles.
3. Back examination: including pelvis and spinal ligaments.
4. Abdominal examination: particularly useful in assessing colic. Also to examine liver, spleen and kidney.
5. Thoracic examination: heart and lung problems.
6. Eye examination.

The digital images generated are of a very high quality. This facilitates earlier identification of pathological changes and detection of subtle damage, The digital image produced is viewed in real-time on a computer screen. The images can be ‘frozen’ or paused. Measurements can then be taken to access the degree of damage. This is also invaluable when monitoring the healing of soft tissue injuries. These digital images (or cine-loop) are then stored electronically and can be e-mailed to the owner or to other centres if a referral is required.

Use the links below to go to the other Diagnostic Imaging pages

Radiography

Endoscopy and Athroscopy