Preprocedural radiographic measurements facilitate centesis of the equine navicular bursa

For centesis of the equine navicular bursa radiographs confirming needle placement are recommended, this can be a logistical challenge. Therefore, we aimed to identify the usefulness of radiographic measurements for centesis of the navicular bursa. On lateromedial radiographs localization of the centre of the flexor surface of the navicular bone was determined in 26 isolated limbs. Based on these measurements, 21 novice veterinary students performed 130 needle placements using the axial distal palmar technique injecting one of five dyes per cadaver limb. Success was identified on dissection as dye on the bursal surface of and within the deep digital flexor tendon. Overall success rate was 84.6%, with significant differences between dye colours, with pink and brown less often documented as successful. There were no significant differences between limbs. The results support using exact measurements from preprocedural radiographs and if validated in vivo this is an additional technique for the injection of the navicular bursa that may be useful in some situations.