• DOI:10.2746/042516403775696311
• Corpus ID: 5973768

Ultrasonography of the equine cervical region: a descriptive study in eight horses.

@article{Berg2010UltrasonographyOT,
  title={Ultrasonography of the equine cervical region: a descriptive study in eight horses.},
  author={Lise Charlotte Berg and J. V. Nielsen and M. B. Thoefner and Preben Dybdahl Thomsen},
  journal={Equine veterinary journal},
  year={2010},
  volume={35 7},
  pages={
          647-55
        }
}

• L. Berg, J. V. Nielsen, +1 author P. Thomsen
• Published 5 January 2010
• Medicine
• Equine veterinary journal

REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY
In equine patients, the cause of clinical signs possibly related to the cervical region is often difficult to diagnose. Ultrasonography allows quick and noninvasive visualisation, but reference material of the normal equine neck is needed.

OBJECTIVES
To describe and document the normal ultrasonographic appearance of transverse scans in the cervical region with emphasis on the synovial articular facet joints, cervical vertebrae and paravertebral structures; and further, to provide images of frozen cross-sections for anatomical reference.

METHODS
A study describing the normal ultrasonographic appearance of the cervical anatomy was performed. Transverse scans were obtained from second cervical vertebra (C2) to first thoracic vertebra (T1). Post mortem photographs of frozen cross-sections were obtained as anatomical reference.

RESULTS
The structures were clearly visualised by ultrasonography and consistency was found between ultrasonographic images and corresponding cross-sectional anatomy. The articular facets varied between horses and facets (C2 to T1). Discrepancy in the existing anatomical descriptions was found.

CONCLUSIONS AND POTENTIAL RELEVANCE
The anatomical and ultrasonographic description provides a reference for ultrasonographic evaluation of equine cervical facet joints, vertebrae and paravertebral structures. The findings and variations found are considered to reflect the naturally occurring variations in horses.