[Diagnostic imaging of the equine cervical spine and clinical significance of findings - review of literature - Part two: Ultrasonography, myelography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance tomography, and nuclear medicine].

Abstract

Diagnostic imaging is an important part of the diagnostic approach in equine spinal ataxia especially with the cervical spine being commonly involved. The spinal cord may be affected by a variety of conditions including cervical vertebral malformations, osteoarthritis of the articular process joints or less commonly neoplasia. Advanced imaging techniques such as myelography are more accurate in diagnosing spinal cord compression and may be performed under general anesthesia in neutral, flexed and extended positions of the cervical spine. The use of ultrasound is non-invasive and allows ultrasound-guided injections in the area of the articular process joints and spinal nerve roots. Nuclear bone scan is widely used and is a highly sensitive, but not very specific modality. Scintigraphic changes in the equine cervical spine are influenced by age, breed and discipline and should be interpreted with caution. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spine is the preferred imaging modality in companion animals, but its use is currently limited to ponies and foals due to the lack of availability of suitable equipment for larger horses. This review provides an overview of the literature on advanced diagnostic imaging for the equine cervical spine and the current state of knowledge regarding significant findings.