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Ultrasound-assisted injection of the centrodistal joint in the horse
Sarah K Jarosinski1, Sarah N Sampson2, Lauren Russell2
1Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
Insights
Ultrasound-guided injections improved accuracy for equine centrodistal (CD) joint procedures. This method offers a potential solution for technically challenging equine joint injections, enhancing success rates.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- The centrodistal (CD) joint injection in horses is a common diagnostic and therapeutic procedure.
- This technique can be challenging, with limited guidance methods previously described.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of using ultrasound localization to improve the accuracy of CD joint injections in horses.
Main Methods:
- Ultrasound-guided injections were performed by a single operator on 24 CD joints in 12 sedated horses.
- Injectates included iohexol, sterile saline, and amikacin.
- Radiographic projections were used to confirm contrast material placement within the CD joint.
Main Results:
- Successful injection into the CD joint was achieved in 17 out of 24 joints, resulting in an accuracy of 70.8%.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound localization shows promise for increasing the success rate of equine CD joint injections.
- This technique may also aid in reducing the learning curve for practitioners performing this procedure.
Background:
Injection of the centrodistal (CD) joint in the horse is a commonly performed procedure for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. This procedure can be technically challenging, and while radiographic guidance has been previously used, ultrasound localised injection of the CD joint has not been described.
Objectives:
The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of using ultrasound localisation to increase the accuracy of CD joint injection.
Study Design:
Experimental method assessment.
Methods:
One operator performed the ultrasound and injection of 24 CD joints in 12 sedated horses. The joints were injected with iohexol (2 ml), sterile saline (1.5 ml) and amikacin (0.5 ml). Dorsoplantar and dorsomedial plantarolateral radiographic projections were obtained immediately after injection to evaluate the presence of contrast material in the CD joint.
Results:
The CD joint was successfully injected in 17/24 joints, representing a 70.8% accuracy.
Main Limitations:
The horses used in this study were from the University research herd, and not clinical cases. One investigator performed all the ultrasonography and CD joint injections.
Conclusions:
The use of ultrasound localisation could improve success of CD joint injection as well as improve the learning curve of less experienced practitioners learning this procedure.
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