Procedure for the Transrectal and Transcutaneous Ultrasonographic Diagnosis of Pelvic Fractures in the Horse

Recent advancements in the quality and availability of imaging modalities have allowed clinicians to diagnose fractures in horses with hindlimb lameness. Many imaging modalities aid in the diagnosis of pelvic fractures, including radiography, nuclear scintigraphy, computed tomography, and ultrasonography. Ultrasonography is an appropriate initial diagnostic tool when a pelvic fracture is suspected. The use of ultrasonography minimizes many of the risks and complications associated with the radiographic, scintigraphic, and computed tomographic evaluation of pelvic fractures, and is readily available to equine practitioners. This manuscript provides a detailed description of a complete transrectal and transcutaneous ultrasonographic examination of the equine pelvis. The described method has been effective in the diagnosis of pelvic fractures in a series of eight cases. Transrectal ultrasonography was found effective in revealing fractures of the ischiatic table, acetabulum, pubis, and ilium. Transcutaneous ultrasonography effectively identified fractures of the ilium, acetabular rim, femoral neck, greater trochanter, and a capital physeal fracture with a subluxated femoral head.