Evaluation of different projections for radiographic detection of tarsal degenerative joint disease in Icelandic horses.

This research examined different radiographic projections to determine their accuracy in identifying degenerative joint disease in the lower ankle (tarsus) of Icelandic horses. The study discovered that the plantarolateral-dorsomedial oblique (P1L-DMO) projection showed the highest frequency of the disease.

Research Methodology

• The research team used radiographs from 196 tarsi in 98 Icelandic horses for this study.
• The researchers evaluated four different projections for their ability to detect radiographic signs of degenerative joint disease in the tarsi.
• They compared findings of one projection alongside readings from all four projections on the same tarsus.
• The team also evaluated the results from reading individual radiographic projections separately, without knowledge of the outcomes from the other three projections.

Results and Findings

• The plantarolateral-dorsomedial oblique (P1L-DMO) projection was most successful in detecting degenerative joint disease.
• The area most often showing radiographic signs of the disease was on the dorsolateral aspect of the centrodistal and tarsometatarsal joints.
• The study found radiographic indications of active bone remodelling in 30 (33%) of the 91 tarsi diagnosed with degenerative joint disease.
• Furthermore, the study found periarticular osteophytes – bony projections associated with joint degeneration – in 51 (56%) of the diseased tarsi.

Implications of the Study

• The study is valuable for vets caring for Icelandic horses and other horse breeds susceptible to degenerative joint disease.
• The information gained can help in developing better diagnostic strategies and potentially contribute to the development of more effective treatments.
• Moreover, the results have implications for radiographic scanning protocols, indicating that the P1L-DMO projection should be prioritised as its use increases the likelihood of detecting the disease.