The Use of Equine Ultrasound Machines
An ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure that offers a clear view of your horse's internal organs, tendons, and ligaments without using radiation.
An equine ultrasound scanner uses sound waves, allowing a real-time view of your horse's internal structures. This diagnostic imaging technique can help your vet determine the degree of injury your horse has sustained, evaluate the large intestine in cases of colic, guide joint injections, assess ovulation and breeding success, and much more.
When is equine abdominal ultrasound used?
Abdominal ultrasound can be a useful tool for diagnosing abnormalities. This technology can be used to view the bowels, intestines, stomach, liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder and diaphragm. The live images can then be used in conjunction with other tests and techniques to diagnose, treat and monitor your horse.
Some of the ways our veterinarians use this technology include:
Colic Detection
Horses can sometimes experience colic, which occurs due to a displacement of the large colon. Equine veterinarians rely on ultrasonography to accurately diagnose this health issue. This diagnostic tool helps determine whether the colic can be treated medically or if surgery is necessary, providing valuable guidance for veterinarians and horse owners.
Urinary System Observation
A bladder ultrasound can provide information about the bladder wall and detect pouches (diverticula), bladder stones, and significant tumors. Similarly, an ultrasound of the kidneys can determine if they are properly positioned and check for blockages, kidney stones, or tumors.
Reproduction Monitoring
Ultrasounds are essential for monitoring a foal's development during a horse's pregnancy. A veterinarian can accurately determine the pregnancy stage, evaluate the fetus's growth, and detect potential complications.
Thoracic & Abdominal Visualization
Abdominal ultrasound examinations can reveal issues regarding hollow viscera (large organs), solid organs, and fluid abnormalities. Thoracic ultrasound examinations can reveal pleural (lung) irregularities, effusion (swelling), and rib fractures.
The Importance of Early Detection of Internal Conditions
Detecting conditions as early as possible can lead to efficient treatment and management. In the case of pregnancy, this allows for the proper care of the horse and ongoing monitoring, while physical injuries or illnesses can be diagnosed and treated before complications arise.
How Ultrasound Aids Veterinarians in Assessing the Internal Health of Horses
Ultrasound is a valuable tool for equine internists as it allows them to visualize tissues that cannot be seen using other methods. It is a safe and non-invasive procedure. However, not every private practice has the expensive equipment required for transabdominal or cardiac ultrasonography. As a result, ultrasound exams may lead to referrals to other facilities.
Note: The advice in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding equine animals or professional advice regarding equine regulations. Please contact your vet to diagnose your animal's condition and help navigate regulations governing the care and transportation of equine animals.