Magnetic resonance imaging, also known as nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, is one of the most modern and safest imaging techniques. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose a wide variety of diseases.
Magnetic resonance imaging, similar to computed tomography, is a cross-sectional imaging technique. However, in MRI, the cross-sectional images are not produced by X-rays, but with the aid of a strong magnetic field and radio waves.
The MRI scanner first generates a very strong magnetic field (10,000 to 30,000 times stronger than the Earth's magnetic field), in which the hydrogen atoms in the body (protons) align themselves. This rotation is called nuclear spin. The device then emits a high-frequency pulse that causes the protons to vibrate. When the pulse is switched off again, the protons return to their original position and release their energy in the form of electromagnetic waves (nuclear resonance). Since the protons behave differently depending on the type of tissue, the amount of energy released also varies. The outgoing pulses are measured by receiving coils and converted into image data by a computer.
There are different types of MRI machines. Most consist of a closed tube and an examination table that can be moved into the tube. However, there are also open MRI machines in which the magnet is not located in a closed tube.
The MRI examination usually takes 15-30 minutes, during which time the patient must not move in order to produce the sharpest possible images. In most cases, animals must therefore be anesthetized for the examination. All metallic objects (collars, harnesses) must be removed from the animal before the examination begins.
Open MRI machines allow examinations to be performed on standing horses. This allows the limbs to be examined from the hoof to the tarsal joint or hock joint, and only a strong sedative is required.
A major advantage of MRI diagnostics is the ability to freely select the slice planes. In addition, MRI offers very high soft tissue contrast and high sensitivity to changes in the fluid content of individual tissues. This allows pathological changes to be detected easily.
On the other hand, structures with low water content (such as bones) or high air content (such as the lungs) cannot be visualized as well in MRI images.
In small animals, magnetic resonance imaging can be used to examine all regions of the body. With the help of an MRI, even the smallest tumors can be visualized. MRI is also used in spinal cord diagnostics, for example in cases of herniated discs or knee joint diagnostics.
Due to the size of horses, computed tomography examinations are limited to the head and lower limbs, except in foals. Devices with a particularly large gantry opening also allow the cervical spine and knee to be examined. MRI is used in horses for further lameness and dental diagnostics, for neck problems, or for acute, deep injuries such as those caused by a nail puncture.
In rabbits and guinea pigs, magnetic resonance imaging is ideal for diagnosing neurological disorders such as paralysis or head tilt, as well as ear infections, but also for imaging the eye, brain, all organs, large blood vessels, nerves, and the entire body. To avoid the risk of anesthesia, a waking MRI can also be performed on small pets.
Although this condition is often colloquially referred to as a stroke in dogs due to its similar symptoms, it is not a circulatory disorder of the brain as in humans, but rather a disorder of the balance organ located in the inner ear of dogs.
It is not uncommon for dogs and cats to develop inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), which is very painful and can quickly become life-threatening.
A cat's attempt to get outside through a tilted window can result in serious injury. In most cases, cats manage to squeeze their head and upper body through the window but then get stuck with their hindquarters in the slanted gap. Attempts to free them only make the situation worse, causing the cat to slide further down into the gap and become trapped. The consequences can include serious external and internal injuries, collectively known as tilt window syndrome, which can often lead to the death of the cat.
With increasing age, the number of cats suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD) rises. Between 30 and 40% of all cats over the age of 10 are affected. It often goes unnoticed for a long time. However, the gradual decline in kidney function continues to progress. CKD is one of the most common causes of death in cats and is unfortunately incurable.
Elbow joint dysplasia describes a complex of hereditary developmental disorders of the elbow joint. It occurs primarily in fast-growing large dog breeds during the growth phase and leads to varying degrees of lameness.
Tumors of the oral cavity can occur in both dogs and cats. In dogs, about half of these tumors are malignant, while in cats, unfortunately, up to 90% are malignant. Due to the poor visibility of the oral cavity, these tumors are often detected at a very late stage.
This disease is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the mare's reproductive system, which is mainly transmitted through mating. The stallion is only a carrier of the pathogen and does not show any clinical symptoms. The disease, known as contagious equine metritis (CEM), was first described in detail in 1977 and is a notifiable disease in Germany.
EOTRH, or more precisely Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis, is currently considered an incurable inflammatory condition affecting the incisors and canines of horses. The disease has only been known for about 10 years, but is now affecting more and more older horses. In many cases, the disease is not detected until late stages, as it is not visible below the gums at the onset.
Cats are not dogs that will do anything for food. They don't eat everything that is put in front of them either, because cats are gourmets – at least most of them are.
You are called to the stable because your horse can hardly move. It is standing in its stall or in the pasture and trying to relieve pressure on its front hooves by placing all its weight on its hindquarters and bringing its front legs forward. This characteristic stance is familiar to many horse owners, and there is little doubt about the diagnosis. Your horse is suffering from acute laminitis. This is one of the most painful conditions a horse can suffer from and, along with colic, is the leading cause of death in horses. Laminitis is always considered an emergency and treatment by a veterinarian is essential.
Rotaviruses are the most common cause of diarrhea in foals. They are widespread among horses and highly contagious. However, they only cause symptoms in young foals.
What a wonderful feeling. Finally, your own horse! Everything went smoothly, from the trial ride to the pre-purchase examination to the purchase transaction. Your horse can move into its new stall. For new horse owners, this is a very exciting time, which is sure to raise a few questions about keeping conditions, health care, training, and much more. First and foremost, you should purchase basic equipment for your new horse that can be used for working and riding. You will quickly discover that you need a lot more than just a saddle and bridle.
