Digital Radiography
At Kopec Veterinary Associates, we utilize state-of-the-art equipment to wirelessly capture high-quality images in both the hospital setting or on the farm. Radiography is typically utilized in conjunction with a thorough examination for assessing musculoskeletal problems such as lameness, advanced dentistry, and other bone-related issues.
Digital Ultrasonography
This type of imaging is best for assessing soft tissues, like tendons and ligaments, masses, reproductive tract, and other body organs. It gives real-time information for quantifying degree of tissue damage, staging rehabilitation plans (in the case of lameness-related soft tissue injury), timing for breeding, and prognostic indicators for some types of colic, among others.
Upper Airway Endoscopy
KVA has the technology through endoscopy to view the structures and functions of the upper airway at rest. We also are equipped with image capture, both still images and video, for future reference or specialist consultation. Endoscopy can be helpful for identifying abnormal respiratory noises at rest or during exercise, evaluating cause of abnormal nasal discharge, or other signs of upper respiratory abnormality.
Lameness Locator TM
Does your horse have a subtle or intermittent lameness? Have you sought multiple opinions and would like an objective approach to your horse’s lameness? would you simply like a baseline evaluation for future reference? The Lameness Locator may be the tool you’re looking for. It is an objective, gyroscopic sensor-based instrument that can identify subtle asymmetry in your horse’s gait. The Lameness Locator is not included in KVA’s general lameness examination, but you may request it or the doctor may recommend it for your horse’s workup.
Thermography
The thermography camera is used to identify areas of asymmetry in the horse, comparing left and right sides. Hot spots may indicate areas of active inflammation close to the skin’s surface, while cold spots show decreased blood flow to the tissues or regions of atrophy. We most commonly will utilize this imaging technique for evaluation of acute or chronic back pain, identifying subtle sources of pain or inflammation, as well as monitoring response to treatments.
Myelography and Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Aspiration
Sampling of the fluid surrounding your horse’s spinal cord gives a highly accurate assessment of active neurological disease or trauma.This can be done in the standing, sedated horse or under general anesthesia. An initial neurological examination is required.