Page 156 - A Practical Guide to Equine Radiography

VetBooks.ir CHAPTER 14

Head

Indications • Rope/webbing headcollar to avoid metal
The head is one of the most anatomically com- artefacts
plex regions of the body and a wide range of • Plate holder is highly recommended (ceil-
disorders affecting the different structures can ing/wall-mounted or handheld)
be found. • Head stand
Indications for performing radiographs of • Mouth gag
the head include: • Radiation safety equipment: lead gowns,
lead gloves and thyroid protectors.
• Nasal discharge
• Soft tissue or osseous swellings
• Clinical signs associated with dental disease Preparation
(quidding, weight loss, discharging tracts, If necessary, brush or wash the area to reduce
malodorous breath, etc.) artefacts caused by dirt. Put on a rope headcol-
• Lacerations or wounds lar. Sedation of the patient is recommended.
• Less specific clinical indications include: poor
performance, equitation issues, headshaking.
Radiographic protocol
Several projections have been described for
assessing the different parts of this region, the
Equipment most common views being the laterolateral
For a complete study of the head, the following and dorsoventral. However, additional specific
equipment is required:
views have been described for more specific
areas (Table 14.1).
• Portable X-ray machine is sufficient
• Large plates (35 × 43 cm)

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