Page 156 - Canine Lameness

128 10 Diagnostic Imaging Techniques in Lameness Evaluation

(A) (D)

(C)

(B)

Figure 10.3 CT images – diagnostic examples: (A) transverse image showing a large fragment associated
with the medial coronoid process of the right elbow (arrow). The adjacent coronoid process is sclerotic and
abnormally shaped; (B) sagittal plane reconstruction of the right elbow. A widening of the humero‐ulnar
joint (small arrow) occurs with mild sclerosis of the anconeal process (large arrow). Humero‐ulnar
incongruity is present; (C) dorsal plane reconstruction of the right elbow. Note the sclerosis of the humeral
trochlea (arrow) with irregular articular margin and small fragments; (D) 3D reconstruction of a dog with
congenital elbow luxation.

speed at which CT studies can be performed has increased, thus allowing for musculoskeletal CT
imaging to be performed with light sedation only. CT provides excellent contrast resolution of soft
tissues and bones, is relatively fast, and can cover multiple regions in one study. It can be combined
with intravenous iodinated contrast to better evaluate the blood flow to tissues (i.e. contrast‐
enhanced CT). The speed of CT, combined with its ability to image regions without superimposi-
tion of overlying structures, offers distinct advantages over other imaging methods. Disadvantages
to CT imaging include ionizing radiation, added expense, need for anesthesia or sedation, and
limited availability in comparison to the ubiquity of ultrasound and radiography.
CT imaging is an excellent diagnostic choice to identify osseous disease or osteochondrosis
dissecans and to evaluate regions with complex osseous anatomy. The shoulder, elbow, and
tarsus joints are some of the most common regions evaluated with CT (Reichle et al. 2000; De
Rycke et al. 2002; Gielen et al. 2005). Bones, muscles, and joints can be evaluated in dorsal
and sagittal imaging planes (Figure 10.4) in unlimited angles for thorough assessment via