DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING IN THE EVALUATION OF THE EQUINE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

Abstract

The respiratory system of large animals is a complex and challenging system that motivates many studies in the veterinary medicine. Among the complementary tests to assess the respiratory system, the imaging techniques provide important information to conduct the diagnosis and prognosis of the animals. The main methods used for the routine are x-rays, conventional ultrasound and endoscopy. Computed tomography, magnetic resonance and scintilography can also be used but with restrictions on the cost / benefit ratio, size of the animals and complexity of the test animals. It is important that new studies be done to adopt those tests involving high technology to the routine and providing reliable information to justify the cost / benefit of the technique. The aim of this work is to review the application of various methods of diagnostic imaging in the evaluation of the respiratory system and contribution for greater understanding of the breathing dynamics of the horse.