Why is my horse having CT imaging? 

CT imaging enables veternarians to precisely locate lesions or abnormalities, leadng to more targeted treatments and improved surgical planning. Additionally, CT scans can be performed on standing, sedated horses, minimizing the need for general anesthesia and reducing associated risks, making it a valuable tool for comprehensive and efficient diagnosis and management of equine health issues. 

How does computed tomography (CT) work?

CT provides detailed cross-sectional images of the equine anatomy allowing for accurate detection and characterization of various musculoskeletal, respiratory, and neurological conditions, including fractures, soft tissue injuries, and dental abnormalities. 

How can I prepare my horse for a CT?

For standing CT scans of the head, little preparation is required. Once the horse arrives, they are given a small dose of sedation to decrease anxiety and ensure their comfort. Once the patient is outside the CT suite, its mouth is rinsed. The patient's existing halter is removed and replaced with a rope halter that does not have any metal. An eye mask and earballs are placed to keep the patient calm and comfortable while in the CT suite. Lastly, an ear hood with a motion correction square is placed on the horse's head to aid in any motion correction needed during the scanning process. 

For CT scans performed under general anesthesia, the patient will need to be fasted to limit the likelihood of aspiration pneumonia during the procedure. The patient will be muzzled while in the hospital ahead of the procedure and a catheter will be placed in their jugular vein. The patient is sedated, induced, and then placed on an MRI and CT compatible table for correct positioning for the scanning process. 

Can I bring my horse's own feed?

Yes! If your horse is used to specific grain, supplements or hay, you are welcome to bring enough feed for 2-3 feedings. Please provide clear instructions alongside the feed.

We are NOT permitted to accept or give medications provided by owners. Inform the front desk if your horse is currently on any kind of medication and arrangements will be made to provide it to your horse during hospitalization. The EMC is also equipped with a HayGain hay steamer should your horse need steamed forage.

The EMC can provide the following feeds to your horse at no extra cost to you: alfalfa cubes/alfalfa hay/alfalfa pellets/grass hay/bran/Dengie/Nutrena Fibergized/Purina® Ultium®/Lucerne Farms: Hi Fiber or Hi Fiber Gold/Triple Crown: Equine Senior or Safe Starch.

How long do CT scans take? 

The scanning process is relatively short, ranging from 30 minutes to two hours depending on the patient and the regions of interest (ROIs) being scanned. Each scan is then analyzed by the clinicians, residents, and interns for clarity and positioning. Once all ROIs have been scanned clearly, the horse is removed from the CT suite. 

How long will it take for my horse to recover?

For standing CT procedures, the patient will need 30 minutes to an hour to recover properly from sedation. They are muzzled during this time with access to water to limit the likelihood of choking while still sedated. 

For procedures under general anesthesia, the recovery period is more extensive. Once removed from the CT suite, the patient is rolled into a padded recovery stall where they will be placed on a mat and have a protective halter and leg wraps applied to limit injury during recovery. 

A rope is tied to the halter and the tail to assist the horse to stand and balance when they first stand up. Once the horse is more coordinated and safe to work around, they are muzzled and taken to a stall to fully recover. 

When can I expect to receive a radiology report?

After the scan is completed, the images are sent to a board certified radiologist for review. The reports are generally returned in 1-2 business days.

Once the report has been received, it will be sent to you and your veterinarian. If the patient is staying at the EMC to receive further treatment pending radiology results, the assigned EMC clinician will review the report and consult with you and your veterinarian on the most suitable treatment and rehabilitation plan for your horse.