Standing computed tomography of the equine limb using a multi-slice helical scanner: Technique and feasibility study

Computed tomography (CT) is an important cross-sectional diagnostic modality for lameness localised to the equine distal limb. The necessity of general anaesthesia to perform CT scans has limited its use in the equine orthopaedic field. Therefore, many attempts have been made to perform CT of the distal limb in standing horses. This retrospective report aims to describe the technical set-up and the feasibility of using a multi-slice helical CT unit recently introduced into the equine market. The medical records of the patients undergoing a standing CT in the period between March 2019 and January 2020 were reviewed. The imaged anatomical region and the image quality were assessed. Thirty-two horses met the inclusion criteria, and the following anatomical areas have been imaged: front foot/pastern (n = 14), metacarpophalangeal joint (n = 11), front proximal suspensory ligament (n = 2), carpus (n = 2), metatarsophalangeal joint (n = 2) and tarsus (n = 1). In 97% of the cases, excellent imaging quality was obtained. Motion artefact is the main cause of poor image quality. The feet and the metacarpophalangeal region can be easily imaged. Imaging the proximal anatomical regions of the limb is more challenging but achievable.