Post-mortem feasibility of dual-energy computed tomography in the detection of bone edema-like lesions in the equine foot: a proof of concept.
Authors: Germonpré Jolien, Vandekerckhove Louis M J, Raes Els, Chiers Koen, Jans Lennart, Vanderperren Katrien
Journal: Frontiers in veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary Bone oedema-like lesions in the equine foot present a diagnostic challenge in clinical practice, as they are currently best identified through magnetic resonance imaging—a costly and logistically demanding technique. Researchers from Ghent University conducted a post-mortem proof-of-concept study comparing dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) virtual non-calcium imaging with low-field MRI across five cadaver feet (two pathological, three control), supported by histopathological examination of the navicular bone and distal phalanx. DECT virtual non-calcium imaging successfully identified diffuse increased attenuation in both pathological feet that correlated with MRI findings and histopathological abnormalities consistent with bone oedema, whilst the three reference feet appeared normal on all imaging modalities. Although this preliminary work is limited by sample size and post-mortem conditions, it demonstrates that DECT may offer a viable alternative to MRI for detecting bone oedema-like lesions in equine feet, with potential advantages in accessibility and practicality. Further validation in larger cohorts and live animals across multiple anatomical locations will be essential before DECT can be recommended for routine clinical use, but these initial findings suggest a promising direction for improving diagnostic capability in equine lameness work-ups.
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Practical Takeaways
- •DECT may offer an alternative imaging modality for detecting bone edema in the equine foot when MRI is unavailable or impractical
- •Post-mortem validation against histopathology supports DECT's diagnostic accuracy, but clinical use in live horses requires further validation
- •This emerging technology could expand diagnostic options for lameness investigation, particularly for navicular-related conditions
Key Findings
- •DECT virtual non-calcium imaging detected bone edema-like lesions in 2 pathological feet with findings concordant with MRI
- •Three reference feet appeared normal on both DECT and MRI, confirming specificity
- •Histopathology confirmed bone edema-like lesions in pathological feet and normal findings in reference foot
- •DECT shows promise as a potential diagnostic tool for equine foot pathology detection