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Arthrography of the equine shoulder joint
1Department of Surgical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville.
Equine Veterinary Journal
|March 1, 1990
Summary
Shoulder arthrography in horses aids in diagnosing cartilage issues like osteochondrosis. This imaging technique helps determine the extent of lesions and guides treatment decisions, distinguishing between surgical and conservative management.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Radiology
- Equine Orthopedics
Background:
- Shoulder arthrography is crucial for diagnosing equine joint conditions.
- Understanding normal radiographic anatomy is essential for accurate interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate techniques and normal radiographic anatomy for positive and double contrast shoulder arthrography in horses.
- To assess the utility of arthrography in diagnosing specific shoulder pathologies.
Main Methods:
- General anesthesia was employed for most radiographic projections.
- Mediolateral and supinated mediolateral views provided the most diagnostic information.
- Water-soluble non-ionic contrast agents (metrizamide, iohexol) were utilized, with iohexol showing reduced adverse effects.
Main Results:
- Arthrography effectively evaluated cartilage-subchondral bone attachment, lesion depth, and free bodies in osteochondrosis cases.
- It identified cartilage thickening and differentiated between surgically manageable and prognostically favorable conditions.
- Lesion extent in humeral and glenoid cavities and subchondral cystic defects were better defined.
Conclusions:
- Shoulder arthrography is invaluable for diagnosing equine shoulder pathologies, including osteochondrosis and osteochondritis dissecans.
- It aids in determining the need for surgery versus conservative management based on lesion characteristics.
- Iohexol is a suitable contrast agent with a favorable safety profile for equine shoulder arthrography.