Radiographic and computed tomographic evaluation of supinator sesamoid bones in dogs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Radiology
• Comparative Orthopedics

Background:

• Supinator sesamoid bones (SSB) are anatomical variations in the canine elbow.
• Their prevalence and association with elbow diseases (ED) require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the frequency of SSB detection using radiography and computed tomography (CT).
• To assess interobserver agreement in SSB identification between the two imaging modalities.
• To investigate a potential correlation between SSB presence and ED.

Main Methods:

• Radiographs and CT scans from 100 dogs were analyzed by three observers.
• Observers scored the presence and characteristics of SSBs.
• Interobserver agreement was quantified using the Kappa test.

Main Results:

• SSBs were detected in 8.33% of dogs on radiographs versus 26% on CT.
• CT identified 72% of SSBs missed by radiography.
• Interobserver agreement was substantial for radiography (κ=0.691) and perfect for CT (κ=1).
• A weak positive correlation was observed between ED and SSB presence.

Conclusions:

• CT is more sensitive than radiography for detecting canine SSBs and provides superior interobserver agreement.
• The clinical significance of SSBs and their potential role in ED warrant further research.