Nuclear Scintigraphy (Bone Scan)
Bone scan imaging, also known as nuclear scintigraphy, is a highly valuable diagnostic tool that allows veterinarians to identify and assess a wide range of bone and joint conditions in horses. The procedure involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into the horse's bloodstream, which is then absorbed by the bones. A specialized camera is used to detect and capture images of the radioactive material, providing detailed information about the distribution of bone activity. Horses can be imaged on an outpatient basis, reducing the need for hospitalization or prolonged recovery periods. The procedure is generally well-tolerated by horses, with minimal discomfort or stress.
“Having access to the most cutting edge technologies and tools available, means getting the most definitive diagnosis for the horse. ”
Benefits of Bone Scan at APEMC include:
Detects Subtle Changes Results may pick up on early signs of skeletal abnormalities and identify areas of increased bone activity.
Early Detection
By detecting issues at an early stage, bone scans allow for prompt intervention, preventing further progression and potentially reducing the severity of the condition. In cases of lameness or poor performance, bone scans are particularly useful because they can pinpoint the exact location of the problem. This is especially crucial when the source of lameness is not readily apparent. By conducting a whole-body bone scan, veterinarians can obtain a comprehensive evaluation of the skeletal system, even before any clinical signs are evident in specific areas. This ability to detect subtle issues helps streamline the diagnostic process and enables veterinarians to target their efforts more precisely, reducing the need for unnecessary or invasive procedures.
Furthermore, bone scans can aid in the evaluation of horses prior to athletic competitions or sales. This assessment can assist in identifying potential concerns that may not be apparent during routine clinical examinations. By thoroughly evaluating the horse's skeletal system, trainers, owners, and potential buyers can make more informed decisions about the horse's suitability for specific activities or investments. Another noteworthy benefit of bone scans is their ability to monitor the response to treatment. By comparing scans taken before and after treatment, veterinarians can objectively evaluate the effectiveness of therapy in managing skeletal conditions. This allows for adjustments to treatment plans as necessary, leading to improved patient outcomes and overall welfare. These scans may be interpreted alongside other clinical findings and imaging modalities to obtain a complete understanding of the patient's condition. Bone scans have revolutionized equine veterinary medicine by offering a non-invasive and highly sensitive method for detecting skeletal abnormalities. Their ability to detect subtle changes in bone metabolism can provide early identification and localization of pathologies, enabling timely intervention and potentially minimizing the extent of the condition. Alongside their applications in lameness evaluations and pre-purchase examinations, bone scans play a vital role in monitoring treatment responses. With these benefits in mind, bone scans have become an essential diagnostic tool in equine veterinary medicine.