Objective: To report on the feasibility, indications, and diagnostic yield of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) of horses' extremities performed under standing sedation.
Study design: Retrospective clinical case series.
Sample population: Fifty-nine CBCT examinations in 58 horses.
Methods: Examinations were categorized for indications for CBCT dependent on a suspicion, presence, or absence of a diagnosis prior to CBCT. The number of acquisitions per examination, total time for the examination, diagnostic score of each acquisition (diagnostic, diagnostic-compromised, nondiagnostic), and additional diagnostic information regarding preexisting diagnostic information were recorded.
Results: Three (median) acquisitions were performed per examination in a median study time of 14 minutes. In 24 of 33 cases with a suspected diagnosis, this diagnosis was confirmed or definitively refuted; in seven of 33 cases, the suspected diagnosis was refuted without a new diagnosis; and, in two of 33 cases, the suspected diagnosis could not be confirmed nor could a new diagnosis be made. In five of nine cases without a preexisting diagnosis, a diagnosis was established. In 16 cases with a diagnosis prior to CBCT, additional information was recorded, or a surgical plan was prepared. In 14 of 18 cases in which additional contrast techniques were used, additional information was gained.
Conclusion: Standing CBCT of the horses' extremities is feasible and can produce diagnostic information in a timely fashion.
Clinical significance: The results provide evidence of the practicality and diagnostic potential of standing CBCT of horses' extremities.
© 2021 The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.