FAQs

MRI frequently asked questions
  1. What is the MRI procedure?
  2. Why is an MRI necessary?
  3. Is MRI painful?
  4. How is the procedure performed?
  5. How long does it take to perform an MRI?
  6. What should I bring to my appointment?
  7. How do I find out the results of the MRI?
Nuclear Scintigraphy frequently asked questions
  1. What is Nuclear Scintigraphy?
  2. How is the procedure performed?
  3. How long does the procedure take?
  4. Can I visit my horse during the over-night stay?
  5. What should I bring to my appointment?

MRI frequently asked questions

1. What is the MRI procedure? Top
  The initials MRI stand for magnetic resonance imaging. During the procedure, a strong magnet exerts a unique effect on the limb placed within the magnetic field. This magnetic effect on the tissues is measured and computed into images that allow excellent visualization of tissue abnormalities in both bone and soft tissues.  
2. Why is an MRI necessary? Top
  This special imaging technique allows us to evaluate the structural relationship between soft tissues and bone in the same image. Radiographs typically evaluate only bone, while diagnostic ultrasound looks primarily at soft tissues such as tendons and ligaments. MRI gives exceptional detail of both types of tissue simultaneously. MRI is a focal imaging modality. It is used to zoom in on one particular area of the body rather than image a large region. Additionally, MRI provides the ability to look at structural anatomy in areas that previously have been inaccessible with other imaging techniques. MRI has given us a completely new window into the structures of the foot, improving our diagnostic and treatment capabilities.  
3. Is MRI painful? Top
  Because MRI is a noninvasive diagnostic technique, it is not painful. The horse is given only a light sedative to minimize motion during the procedure and to ensure safety for the horse and technician. Neither the horse nor people feel any sensation when near the magnet.  
4. How is the procedure performed? Top
  On arrival the MRI technician will examine the horse. A catheter is then placed in the jugular vein for use during sedation. The front or hind shoes must be removed depending on whether a front or hind limb is being imaged. The metal in the shoes will degrade the quality of the image if in close proximity to the magnet. The horse is positioned so the area of interest is within the center of the horseshoe shaped magnet. A series of exams called “sequences” are produced, which form pictures of the anatomy of the limb. A repetitive clicking sound is heard while the sequences are being produced.  
5. How long does it take to perform an MRI? Top
  Appointments are scheduled Monday through Friday at either 9:00 a.m. or 1:00 p.m.
Approximately four hours should be allocated to image one area of the body. This allows time for preparation of the horse and feet as well as acquiring the images. The horse should arrive at least one hour prior to the appointment time the day of the procedure and may leave the same day unless scheduled for other procedures.		  
6. What should I bring to my appointment? Top
  Please bring your horse's medical history, radiographs, and reports from previous exams. The radiologists may wish to review these documents before interpretation of the MRI images. We want to provide you with the most comprehensive evaluation possible so the more historical information you can provide, the better. We work very closely with your regular veterinarian to make sure an accurate diagnosis is reached. You should also be prepared to provide leg bandages, blankets, and instructions for feeding your horse should an overnight stay becomes necessary. On occasion, further diagnostics are warranted so your horse might have to stay overnight in order to allow time for additional procedures.  
7. How do I find out the results of the MRI? Top
  Please allow up to three working days for the radiologists to review your horse's medical history and to interpret the MRI images. Your veterinarian will receive a written report of the interpretation as well as a copy of the exam. Our clinic veterinarian will discuss the case with your regular veterinarian who can then provide you with the necessary follow-up treatment and long term recommendations.  

Nuclear Scintigraphy frequently asked questions

1. What is Nuclear Scintigraphy? Top
  Nuclear scintigraphy is a very sensitive diagnostic procedure that helps pinpoint areas of bone remodeling and inflammation.  Nuclear scintigraphy is a broad, regional imaging tool and gives the veterinarian general information about where the problem is located.  
2. How is the procedure performed? Top
  The procedure involves the injection of a safe and short acting (24 hr) radioactive material, technetium99, which is temporarily selectively taken up by bone that is actively remodeling.  On arrival, the imaging technician will examine your horse. A catheter is placed in the jugular vein for sedation and technetium administration.

Your horse is positioned in front of a large gamma camera and the soft tissue (pool phase) images are collected immediately following injection of the technetium. The radioactive technetium is a low energy beta emitter so the gamma camera “reads” the energy and then the computer translates the information into a picture. Following the pool phase, the horse is returned to its stall for two hours to allow time for the isotope to be taken up by the skeletal system.  Following the two-hour break, the bone phase images are collected.		  
3. How long does the procedure take? Top
  The procedure typically takes five hours (including the two-hour up-take time). The horse should arrive no less than one-hour prior to the procedure time and must stay over-night.  
4. Can I visit my horse during the over-night stay? Top
  Yes, you may visit your horse.† However, for your safety, you will not be allowed into the stall until at least 24 hrs has passed since your horse's injection.  
5. What should I bring to my appointment? Top
  Please bring your horse’s medical history, radiographs, and reports from previous exams. You should also be prepared to provide leg bandages, blankets and feeding instructions.