Diagnostic imaging
Diagnostic imaging is an essential component of the work-up of many cases, and a work-up may often require a combination of different techniques. Cambridge Equine Clinic provides mobile and clinic-based digital radiography and ultrasound services for x-ray and ultrasonography purposes. The recent purchase of a new state-of-the-art portable ultrasound machine has proven very useful for ambulatory visits, and its high resolution allows detection of subtle abnormalities.
Radiography
At Cambridge Equine Clinic we have a powerful gantry-mounted unit and a smaller portable unit. The gantry-mounted unit is ideal for imaging of large areas such as the neck, back, and chest whereas the portable unit is best for limbs. We are also fortunate to have a team of specialist radiographers and radiologists available to assist with clinic-based work. Contrast imaging, whereby a contrast dye is injected into a specific area to allow for better visualisation can also be performed in the clinic and can be as useful diagnostic prior to surgery in some lameness cases.
Ultrasonography
We have 3 diagnostic ultrasound machines (2 portable and 1 clinic) which can perform a complete range of examinations, and is particularly useful in lameness investigations, abdominal investigations, and reproductive scanning for pregnancy diagnosis and pre-breeding assessment. Our vets will be able to advise on the need for an ultrasonographic exam, particularly with regards to skin preparation in your horse. Combining radiography and ultrasound remains a vital backbone of a lameness work-up, along with nerve blocks and sometimes more advanced imaging techniques such as CT or MRI.
