B-Mode Ultrasonographic Abnormalities and Power Doppler Signal in Suspensory Ligament Branches of Nonlame Working Quarter Horses.

Abstract

Information concerning B-mode ultrasonographic abnormalities and power Doppler (PD) signal in suspensory ligament branches of nonlame working Quarter Horses are not reported. The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of B-mode ultrasonographic abnormalities and PD signal in suspensory ligament branches in a group of nonlame working Quarter Horses and to compare B-mode findings with PD findings of horses in two different training (barrel racing and team roping). Twenty-one Quarter Horses in training, 14 barrel racing (Group B) and seven team roping horses (Group R), were assessed by ultrasound for screening purpose. A total of 168 suspensory ligament branches were examined (B-mode and PD examinations). B-mode lesions were seen more frequently in forelimbs (25 branches) than in hindlimbs (10 branches). Power Doppler signal was not detected in suspensory ligament branches that were normal at B-mode, whereas it was visible in 22 of the 35 branches abnormal at B-mode. Horses of Group R showed more B-mode abnormalities and more PD signal in branches abnormal in B-mode.