Transrectal ultrasonographic examination of the sacroiliac joints of the horse: Technique and normal images
Authors: Tallaj A., Coudry V., Denoix J.‐M.
Journal: Equine Veterinary Education
Summary
Sacroiliac joint pathology commonly underlies poor hindlimb performance and low back pain in horses, yet imaging these deep structures presents significant technical challenges. Tallaj and colleagues established a standardised transrectal ultrasonographic technique for visualising the ventral sacroiliac joint margins, emphasising the anatomical knowledge required to obtain and correctly interpret images. Their work identified important individual variation in sacral and iliac wing morphology, particularly between male and female horses, which clinicians must account for when evaluating normal versus pathological appearances. Complete screening of the articular margins is essential for accurate diagnosis, and understanding these baseline references enables practitioners to distinguish structural changes associated with performance issues. For equine veterinarians and physiotherapists managing horses with hindlimb dysfunction, this technique offers a non-invasive diagnostic tool that, when properly executed, can clarify sacroiliac involvement in cases that might otherwise remain diagnostically obscure.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Master transrectal ultrasound technique to access sacroiliac joints when investigating hindlimb lameness and back pain cases
- •Recognize normal anatomical variation between individuals and sexes to avoid over-interpreting normal findings as pathology
- •Develop strong anatomical knowledge of this region to accurately identify and interpret joint margins and structures during scanning
Key Findings
- •Transrectal ultrasonography allows visualization of the ventral aspect of sacroiliac joints for diagnostic evaluation
- •Complete screening of articular margins is necessary for comprehensive assessment
- •Sacral and iliac wing morphology varies among individual horses, with gender-dependent differences