Page 106 - A Practical Guide to Equine Radiography

VetBooks.ir CHAPTER 9

Elbow

Indications Preparation
Radiography of the elbow is not an everyday If necessary, brush or wash the area to reduce
procedure for equine practitioners, but in cer- artefacts caused by dirt. Sedation of the patient
tain circumstances it is an essential technique is advised.
for an assessment of the bones in the elbow
region, especially if a fracture is suspected.
Indications for performing radiographs of Radiographic protocol
the elbow include: The standard radiographic examination of the
elbow includes two radiographs:
• Clinical signs indicating a fracture in the
region, e.g. a ‘dropped’ elbow appearance • Mediolateral (ML)
commonly associated with an olecranon • Craniocaudal (CrCd).
fracture
• Signs of trauma, such as wounds and Additional oblique projections may be helpful
swellings in some cases:
• Lameness localized to the elbow by diagnos-
tic analgesia (humeroradial joint block). • Cranio 45º medial-caudolateral oblique
(Cr45M-CdLO).

Equipment
For a complete study of the elbow the following
equipment is required:

• Portable X-ray machine is usually sufficient
• Large plates (35 × 43 cm) are recommended
• Plate holder
• Radiation safety equipment: lead gowns,
lead gloves and thyroid protectors.

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