Use of computerized radiography in diagnosis of foot lameness in horses

Six adult lame horses of either sex were included in the present study on survey radiography of the digital region. Radiography of the digital region of fore limbs and hind limbs of the horses was performed in latero-medial and orthogonal views using Computed radiography. All the radiographs were interpretated and evaluated contemplating on the basis of history. Additionally, morphometric measurements of the phalanges based on radiographic images from abnormal horses was recorded. The radiographs of six horses with the history of lameness showed various abnormalities viz., ring bones, side bones, quittor with sinus tract, pedal bone periostitis and osteoporosis. The radioosteometry provided baseline data of normal radiographic morphometry. The horn-laminar diameter and palmar angle were found to be higher in lame horses, whereas sole depth was more in a horse having infectious degeneration of the frog. Based on the results, it was concluded that the radiographic assessment of lame horses is important for prognostic prediction of the pathology and correct diagnosis of foot lameness. The morphometric evaluation may serve as reference for comparative assessment of osteopathies, which lead to change in size, shape and contour of the phalanx.