Ultrasonographic examination of the equine sacroiliac region

Little information exists about the normal ultrasonographic appearance of the equine sacroiliac region, but knowledge of the ultrasonographic anatomy is necessary to understand the possible pathological changes in sacroiliac diseases.

The normal ultrasonographic appearance of soft tissues and bony structures of the sacroiliac region in horses was studied in order to establish clinically relevant reference parameters.

Thirteen cadaver specimens were examined using a transcutaneous approach above the tubera sacrale to image the dorsal sacroiliac ligament and the tendon of the longissimus dorsi muscle. A rectal approach was used to outline the sacroiliac joint and its adjacent structures. Thirteen sound horses with no history of back pain were examined following the same protocol as for the post mortem examinations.

The tendon of the longissimus dorsi muscle can clearly be distinguished from the dorsal sacroiliac ligament, especially in longitudinal images. Transrectal examination of the sacroiliac joint consists of evaluation of the bony surfaces of the sacrum and ilium in comparison with the contralateral side.

Ultrasonographic examination of the sacroiliac region provided clear images of the caudomedial border of the sacroiliac joint and its adjacent structures and is a useful aid in the diagnosis of sacroiliac joint diseases and adjacent lesions. The study has shown ultrasonography to be a useful method for examining and differentiating the longissimus dorsi muscle and the dorsal sacroiliac ligament at the level of the tubera sacrale.

Diagnostic ultrasound is available to most practitioners. These reference ultrasound parameters may help to improve the diagnosis of sacroiliac diseases.