Low‐field Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Equine Tarsus: Normal Anatomy

Abstract

The objective of this study was to define the normal gross anatomic appearance of the adult equine tarsus on a low-field magnetic resonance (MR) image. Six radiographically normal, adult, equine tarsal cadavers were utilized. Using a scanner with a 0.064 Tesla magnet, images were acquired in the sagittal, transverse and dorsal planes for T1-weighted and the sagittal plane for T2-weighted imaging sequences. Anatomic structures on the MR images were identified and compared with cryosections of the imaged limbs. Optimal image planes were identified for the evaluation of articular cartilage, subchondral bone, flexor and extensor tendons, tarsal ligaments, and synovial structures. MR images provide a thorough evaluation of the anatomic relationships of the structures of the equine tarsus.

Use of magnetic resonance imaging for identifying subchondral bone damage in horses: 11 cases (1999–2003)

“…3,7,10,11 Magnetic resonance imaging techniques and sequences for the distal limbs of live horses have been recently published with minor modifications. Techniques for MR imaging of the distal limb in equine cadaver specimens have been previously described.…”

Standing low‐field magnetic resonance imaging of a comminuted central tarsal bone fracture in a horse

“…Normal trabecular bone has a high to intermediate signal intensity and appears light grey on T1 weighted images, whereas cortical and subchondral bone are darker due to lower signal intensity (Blaik et al . ). Fracture lines appear as defects in both bone outline and structure and may have increased signal intensity in T2 weighted scans or STIR sequences (Murray and Mair ).…”

“…The distal tarsus is amenable to MRI examination as it has a narrow linear profile and minimal soft tissue coverage, which allows placing the radiofrequency receiver coil close to the structures to be examined (Blaik et al . ; Latorre et al . ).…”

Desmitis of the medial tarsal collateral ligament in 7 horses

“…Either of these methods may facilitate thorough evaluation of the 4 components of the equine medial collateral ligament. Normal cadaver tarsal anatomy on a low field system has been described; however, this modality did not differentiate between the long and short components of the tarsal collateral ligaments except at the origins and insertions (Blaik et al . 2000).…”