Why is my horse having MRI imaging? 

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has long been the gold standard for diagnosing pathology. The EMC's Hallmarq Standing Equine MRI system is designed with specialized equine-specific imaging protocols and coils, optimizing image quality and diagnostic accuracy for various musculoskeletal issues commonly seen in the horses. MRI is great for evaluation of lameness, and soft tissue injuries which may be subtle enough not to be detected by other imaging modalities.

How does MRI work?

The Hallmarq MRI at the EMC is a low-field MRI with the capability to perform standing and general anesthesia (GA) MRI scans up to the carpus or tarsus. MRI visualizes slices through tissue and can quickly and precisely localize damage to bone and soft tissues without the need for anesthesia.

MRI is the only way to distinguish between the many different diseases underlying "navicular disease" in the foot. MRI of the fetlock and knee allows trainers to modify training protocols to prevent poor performance and avoid risk of serious injury.

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

Why does my horse need his/her shoes pulled? 

MRI imaging uses a large magnet to help produce diagnostic images. Any item with magnetic properties, including shoes, nail fragments, and hoof packing, interferes with production of these diagnostic images. EMC technicians, interns, and residents are trained to remove shoes properly to ensure that the hoof wall remains intact and any trace metal pieces are removed. 

Can my horse's shoes be reset at the EMC on the same day?

It is generally recommended to keep shoes off until the radiologist report is returned and a treatment plan is finalized, as it may include shoeing modifications. Hoof boots or soft ride boots can be used to keep your horse comfortable while waiting for your treatment plan. 

How is my horse sedated?

During standing MRI scans, a 2-inch temporary catheter is placed by a technician. EMC MRI technicians use acepromazine, xylazine, detomidine, and butorphanol to keep the patient in an even level of sedation to ensure minimal motion and ensure optimal diagnostic images. 

How are sedation levels monitored?

EMC MRI technicians are trained to sedate in a way that keeps the patient in a level state of sedation. This process varies from patient to patient, and the managing clinician is kept informed of any changes or challenges that occur during the sedation process. EMC MRI technicians are provided with upper limits of different sedatives to limit side effects from the sedation. The patients are given breaks throughout the scanning process to allow them to rest and relieve themselves appropriately. 

How long do MRI scans take?

MRI scans can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours to obtain quality images. The length of the procedure depends on the number of regions of interest (ROIs) that are being imaged, the comfort of the patient as well as how the patient handles the sedation. 

How long will it take for my horse to recover?

For standing MRI 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 a choke episode while still sedated. 

For procedures under general anesthesia, the recovery period is more extensive. Once removed from the MRI suite, the patient is rolled into a padded recovery stall where they will be placed on a mat and have 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 down to a stall to recover fully.  

When can I expect to receive a radiology report?

Once 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 received, the report 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 best treatment and rehabilitation plan.