Ultrasound is a pain-free diagnostic tool that allows the veterinarian to visualize internal organs and structures within the body. Sound waves are produced that create echoes of varying nature depending on the type and density of the tissue and the amount of fluid present. These echoes are reflected as a picture on the monitor screen.
In equine medicine, the use of the ultrasound goes beyond evaluating tendons and ligaments; it is used to evaluate:
- heart function, size, the nature and prognosis of murmurs, and the vessels entering and exiting the heart
- the surface of the lungs for pneumonia, abscesses, masses, and free fluid within the chest cavity
- the structures within the abdomen, namely the spleen liver, kidneys and stomach as well as the thickness and movement of the small and large intestines.
- bladder stones, abnormal bladder walls, ovaries, testicles and the uterus
- the fetus during pregnancies
Ultrasound examination is performed in the standing horse. The hair is doused with alcohol and ultrasound gel may be used between the ultrasound probe and body to improve the image. The hair may need to be clipped to provide better contact between the probe and skin for a more detailed image.
Ultrasound can be used to guide biopsies of organs such as liver, lung, spleen, and kidney, and to obtain fluid in the chest and abdominal cavities as well as sampling masses and abscesses.
If you have any questions about the ultrasound procedure please don’t hesitate to ask.
