Magnetic resonance imaging of the hock: What does it tell us?

Currently, equine tarsal disorders are mainly diagnosed using radiographs, ultrasonography, scintigraphy, and/ or arthroscopy [1]. Additionally, several reports describe computed tomographic scanning [2]. However, each of these techniques have certain limitations preventing complete and simultaneous imaging of osseous and soft tissue tarsal structures. Whereas human tarsal conditions are routinely diagnosed by MRI, reports on equine tarsal MRIs are rather limited [3]. The purpose of this case series was to (1) describe a routine MRI scanning technique for equine tarsi, (2) report typical MRI findings and (3) compare, if applicable, these results to pre-MRI radiographic, ultrasonographic and/ or arthroscopic findings post-MRI. We hypothesised, that our technique for equine tarsal MRI (1) can be routinely performed on all horses independent on breed, age and gender, (2) is a safe diagnostic procedure, (3) can portray all soft tissue and bone structures completely/simultaneously, (4) can delineate abnormal/diseased structures and (5) can assist in managing tarsal lameness and in pre-op planning ...