Equine Laminitis Radiographs

Radiographic studies are an essential component in evaluation of horses with laminitis.

Equine laminitis radiographs.

Hunt dvm ms diplomate acvs author s address. Hagyard equine medical institute 4250 ironworks pike lexington ky 40511. Recurrent laminitis episodes are not uncommon particularly in horses with predisposing risk factors such as equine metabolic syndrome ems. Your equine practitioner can provide you with information about your horse s condition based on radiographs x rays and the animal s response to treatment.

Chronic laminitis is primarily a radiographic diagnosis meaning that it is made based on x ray findings. Equine laminitis radiography chronic laminitic horses radiograph angles 1. Evaluation of horses with laminitis. Radiographs x rays are incredibly beneficial in making a diagnosis and the findings can also help with estimating the chance for successful outcome.

To show severity of laminitis. The standard radiographs that should be obtained to aid assessment of horses with laminitis are the lateromedial horizontal dorsopalmar and dorsal 45 proximal palmarodistal oblique views. Radiographs will show how much rotation of the coffin bone has occurred. Horses suffering from laminitis are identified by observation physical exam and careful examination of the hooves.

Chronic laminitis may also be called founder. The subacute phase may precede full recovery may relapse into acute laminitis or may progress to chronic laminitis in which radiographic changes are present. X rays correctly called radiographs are essential for assessing changes in the feet following laminitis and should clearly show the relationship between the hoof capsule and the internal structures of the foot to help the hoofcare professional. Practical clinical considerations robert j.

The standard radiographs that should be obtained to aid assessment of horses with laminitis are the lateromedial horizontal dorsopalmar and dorsal 45 proximal palmarodistal oblique views.