Equine Imaging Flashcards
what are the special considerations that must be made during equine imaging?
physical safety
radiation safety
what are the risks associated with physical safety during equine imaging?
damage to personnel, equipment and the horse itself
why is the risk of injury higher with equine imaging?
radiographs usually performed with the horse conscious and standing
how should physical safety be ensured during equine imaging?
sedate unless horse is very sensible
ensure sedation is deep enough to create compliance but not so deep the animal cannot stand up
carry out procedure quickly and quietly
what should be avoided when performing equine imaging?
loud noises or sudden movements
touching the horse with x ray equipment or cassettes/holders
what must you always be ready to do when imaging horses?
be ready to move x-ray equipment out of the way if the horse moves or kicks
why does equine radiation create bigger radiation concerns than smaller animals?
people in room with animal
large exposure values due to thicker tissues
large amount of scattered radiation
how can exposure risk during equine radiography be reduced?
minimise number of people around the horse
ensure all involved are wearing protective clothing and dosimeters
how many people should be involved in equine radiology?
3 - one at head, one holding plate, one radiographer
what type of primary beam is often used during equine imaging?
horizontal
how can radiation safety be ensured when using a horizontal x ray beam?
ensure x ray beam is pointing towards a substantial barrier (wall)
ensure no part of a person is in the line of the primary x ray beam
what is the benefit of using cassette holders over having staff hold cassettes?
keeps personnel away from x ray beam and reduces risk from scatter
what must be worn when standing close to the primary beam during equine x ray?
PPE - lead apron, thyroid protector and gloves
how should the horse be prepared for radiography of the foot?
brush off mud
remove shoe (if it will obscure required structure)
pick out hoof
pack frog
mark hoof wall/coronary band/point of frog
why may you want to mark hoof wall/coronary band/point of frog when imaging a hoof?
reference points (e.g. if looking for dropped coffin bone)
how many projections are usually taken for lower limb of the equine?
4 minimum
how many projections are usually taken for the upper limb of the equine?
2