Non-invasive measurement of bone: a review of clinical and research applications in the horse.
Abstract: The current methods for non-invasive measurement of bone quality are reviewed. In the horse this has traditionally involved the use of radiography, but there are now two other modalities available for the critical evaluation of cortical bone quality and strength. These utilise single photon absorptiometry and ultrasound velocity. Photon absorptiometry gives a direct measurement of bone mineral content, by using a monoenergetic radionuclide source, and transverse ultrasound velocity in bone gives a measure of bone stiffness or elasticity. They can both be used conveniently on the metacarpus of the conscious horse. Both ultrasound velocity and bone mineral content can be used as accurate indicators of skeletal maturity. In addition, the effects of disuse on bone and certain types of lameness can be monitored accurately. Preliminary data show an association with exercise in young and mature horses. There also appears to be considerable scope for in vivo research of bone changes in horses produced by immobilisation, weightlessness, exercise and nutrition.
Publication Date: 1988-09-01 PubMed ID: 9079066DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1988.tb04651.xGoogle Scholar: Lookup
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- Journal Article
- Review
Summary
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The research article reviews the current non-invasive methods used to measure bone quality in horses, highlighting the use of radiography, single photon absorptiometry, and ultrasound velocity to evaluate cortical bone quality and strength.
About the Research
- The research is a comprehensive review of the non-invasive methods used for measuring bone quality in horses. It critically assesses and compares traditional and modern techniques, with a particular focus on the recent advancements in the field.
Traditional vs. Modern Methods
- Traditional methods for non-invasive bone measurement have typically included the use of radiography. However, limitations and advancements in technology have led to the development of alternative modalities for this purpose.
- The modern methods explored in the review utilise single photon absorptiometry and ultrasound velocity. These methods provide a more detailed evaluation of the quality and strength of the cortical bone in horses.
Single Photon Absorptiometry and Ultrasound Velocity
- Single photon absorptiometry provides a direct measurement of bone mineral content by using a monoenergetic radionuclide source. This allows for a comprehensive assessment of bone health and integrity.
- Ultrasound velocity gives an insight into the stiffness or elasticity of the bone, offering a unique perspective to bone assessment methods. This technique can be conveniently applied to the metacarpus of a conscious horse.
Applications of the Methods
- Both ultrasound velocity and bone mineral content can be used as accurate indicators of a horse’s skeletal maturity. This capability is critical in determining the optimal conditions for horse training and performance.
- These methods can also monitor accurately the effects of disuse on bone and various types of lameness, providing timely and valuable information for interventions.
- Preliminary data show a correlation with exercise in both young and mature horses, suggesting their potential in guiding exercise regimens for these animals.
Potential for Future Research
- The research identifies a considerable scope for in vivo research in monitoring bone changes in horses due to various factors such as immobilisation, weightlessness, exercise, and nutrition.
Cite This Article
APA
Jeffcott LB, Buckingham SH, McCarthy RN, Cleeland JC, Scotti E, McCartney RN.
(1988).
Non-invasive measurement of bone: a review of clinical and research applications in the horse.
Equine Vet J Suppl(6), 71-79.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3306.1988.tb04651.x Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Veterinary Clinical Centre, Werribee, Victoria, Australia.
MeSH Terms
- Absorptiometry, Photon / veterinary
- Animals
- Bone Density
- Bone Diseases / diagnosis
- Bone Diseases / veterinary
- Bone and Bones / diagnostic imaging
- Bone and Bones / physiology
- Horse Diseases / diagnosis
- Horses / anatomy & histology
- Horses / physiology
- Lameness, Animal / diagnosis
- Physical Conditioning, Animal
- Radionuclide Imaging
- Ultrasonography
Citations
This article has been cited 3 times.- Yamada K, Sato F, Higuchi T, Nishihara K, Kayano M, Sasaki N, Nambo Y. Experimental investigation of bone mineral density in Thoroughbreds using quantitative computed tomography. J Equine Sci 2015;26(3):81-7.
- Gabriel A, Jolly S, Detilleux J, Dessy-Doize C, Collin B, Reginster JY. Morphometric study of the equine navicular bone: variations with breeds and types of horse and influence of exercise. J Anat 1998 Nov;193 ( Pt 4)(Pt 4):535-49.
- McCartney RN, Jeffcott LB, McCarthy RN. Transverse path of ultrasound waves in thick-walled cylinders. Med Biol Eng Comput 1995 Jul;33(4):551-7.
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