Metacarpophalangeal joint injury patterns on magnetic resonance imaging: A comparison in racing Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds.

The metacarpal condyle has received extensive attention as a predominant site of overload arthropathy in racehorses. However, detailed descriptions of MRI lesion patterns for the metacarpophalangeal joint and comparisons between types of racing horses are currently lacking. Aims of this retrospective, cross-sectional study were to describe and compare standing low-field magnetic resonance findings in the metacarpophalangeal joints for groups of Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds using systematic semiquantitative scores.

Comparison of inversion recovery gradient echo with inversion recovery fast spin echo techniques for magnetic resonance imaging detection of navicular bone marrow lesions in horses.

Objective: To compare navicular bone marrow lesion (BML) conspicuity in the feet of horses as determined via 2 fat-suppressed MRI techniques, including standard short tau inversion recovery (STIR) and inversion recovery gradient echo (IRGE).

Sample: Feet (n = 150) of horses with lameness referable to the distal portion of the digit.

Procedures: STIR and IRGE sequences were obtained prospectively in all feet with a standing low-field equine MRI system.

Dynamic respiratory endoscopy without treadmill in 68 performance Standardbred, Thoroughbred and saddle horses under natural training conditions.

Reasons For Performing Study: High speed treadmill endoscopy provides a true assessment and diagnosis of the dynamic obstructions of the upper equine respiratory tract (DO-URT). However, treadmills do not always allow reproduction of the exact conditions of dynamic collapse of the URT. The availability of on-board endoscopes, which could be used without a treadmill, would make exercising endoscopy readily available to more equine practices.