Optimized Equine Therapy

03/21/2025

Fantastic research on advancing imaging techniques of the hoof capsule! Better visualizations will be able to help veterinarians and hoof care practitioners working with them identify pathologies more easily and hopefully catch developments earlier.

First publication on Equine Dual Energy CT (DECT) - made with Qalibra CT at Ghent University, BEL.

Introduction: In this proof-of-concept study, the post-mortem feasibility of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in the detection of bone edema-like lesions in the equine foot is described in agreement with the gold standard imaging technique, which is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results: On DECT virtual non-calcium imaging, the two pathological feet showed diffuse increased attenuation corresponding with bone edema-like lesions, whereas the three reference feet were considered normal. These findings were in agreement with the findings on the MRI. Histopathology of the two pathologic feet showed abnormalities in line with bone edema-like lesions. Histopathology of the reference foot was normal.

See the full article here in Veterinary Science:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2023.1201017/full?&utm_source=Email_to_authors_&utm_medium=Email&utm_content=T1_11.5e1_author&utm_campaign=Email_publication&field=&journalName=Frontiers_in_Veterinary_Science&id=1201017

03/21/2025

Incredible new use of technology and technique to more safely and comfortably CT scan horses while obtaining clearer visuals on what's going on inside--even in previously difficult parts of the body to visualize. Visit their page to see some of the 3D scans the team has been able to capture, even of the pelvis, shoulders, and head. This is an exciting step forward in veterinary medicine. And when working with a vet, these visuals can provide great insight for bodywork and hoof care.

As we approach the anniversary of the installation of the 1st Qalibra CT scanner in the UK at Bell Equine, we have been reflecting on the cases we have imaged over the last year.

Since our first scan in late March 2024 we have imaged nearly 150 horses. The area(s) imaged in these cases ranges from the tip of the nose to the hind foot and almost everywhere in-between, including areas previously inaccessible for 3D imaging in horses in the UK e.g. the pelvic and shoulder regions.

The CT studies performed at Bell Equine have provided diagnoses in challenging cases, directed treatment, allowed for surgical planning or prevented the need for surgery, and have improved our ability to provide prognoses for our cases.

We would like to take the opportunity to thank all involved in bringing the power of this system to quickly and efficiently help our patients; from the team at Qalibra CT, our imaging team at Bell Equine and to our clients and referring vets for trusting us with their cases.

This photo demonstrates one of our recent patients during a standing sedated CT scan of the head. The platform, gantry and table were moved into the perfect position, to adapt the size and conformation of the patient to allow her to stand comfortably throughout the scan.
Using the versatility of the system allows horses to stand still in a comfortable position for them, speeding up acquisition time, and resulting high quality images that maximise the diagnostic capability of the system.

01/07/2025

The blood vascular system of the hoof... I just can’t get over how intricate it is ♥️

06/05/2024

The impact of girthing on a horse's body and biomechanics.

A really informative video for you, all about the impact girthing has on a horses movement. An interesting watch for any equestrian who wants to get thinking...

05/30/2024

Some very cool dorsal footage of the way the equine back moves in walk, trot, and canter.

03/09/2024

09/07/2023

Becks Nairn on the ossification and development of the pelvis, and how heavy work load in early development can cause sacroiliac and lumbar pain, as well as lifelong conditions such as sprung pelvis or "hunter's bump" which is common in racehorses and jumpers.

01/29/2023