Equine radiography – the palmaroproximal-palmarodistal (‘skyline’) view of the distal sesamoidean (‘navicular’) bone

A case study explaining the indications, preparations and technique required to carry out a radiograph of the foot for equine practice.

Indications
• Investigation of lameness caused by foot pain (as determined by perineural anaesthesia).
• Pre-purchase examinations.
• Investigation of traumatic/penetrating wounds of the foot (especially the solar surface).
• Monitoring progression of disease.

Preparation
• Remove the shoe, if present.
• Ensure foot is trimmed to remove all loose horn.
• Ensure foot is picked out, clean and free from dirt.
• Pack the lateral sulci of the frog with Play-Doh (avoiding excess packing).

Technique

Image from Bulter, JA et al (2008) Clinical Radiography
of the Horse.
3rd ed. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell

  • Bring the limb to be radiographed caudally as far as possible and ensure the horse is bearing weight on the contralateral forelimb. (This may require sedation and/or regional anaesthesia if the foot pain is pronounced.)
  • Place a reinforced cassette tunnel (with cassette in place!) under the foot to be radiographed, and position the foot towards the ‘caudal’ end of the cassette tunnel.
  • Centre the beam between the heel bulbs and angle parallel to the flexor surface. (Approximately 45o.)
  • N.B. This positioning may be difficult because:
  • If the beam is angled too ‘upright’ the ergot becomes superimposed over the navicular bone.
  • If the beam is angled to ‘low’ the flexor cortex is artificially thickened and its border with the medulla becomes less distinct, mimicking pathology.
  • The generator will be positioned up against the body wall which can make correct positioning difficult or impossible in overweight animals.
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