Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How MR imaging helped 11 military dogs with knee issues
By Banfield, C M & Morrison, W B·Published in Veterinary radiology & ultrasound : the official journal of the American College of Veterinary Radiology and the International Veterinary Radiology Association·2000·Department of Defense Military Working Dog Veterinary Services, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Magnetic resonance arthrography of the canine stifle joint: technique and applications in eleven military dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Eleven military dogs were evaluated for knee (stifle) joint issues using advanced imaging techniques. The dogs underwent a special procedure called MR arthrography, where a contrast dye was injected into the joint to get clearer images. This method revealed problems like ligament tears and meniscus damage in several dogs. While this technique is more invasive than standard imaging, it provided valuable insights into the dogs' joint conditions, helping guide treatment decisions. No complications were reported after the procedure.
People also search for: dog knee joint problems · military dog stifle injury · MR arthrography for dogs · dog ligament tear treatment · dog meniscus injury signs
Abstract
The stifle joints of eleven military working dogs were evaluated using conventional magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and MR arthrography. A protocol optimizing MR imaging of the canine stifle joint is discussed, as well as potential uses for administration of intra-articular gadolinium. The technique for performing MR arthrography is described, and post-contrast image findings are reviewed. MR arthrography was performed by using an intra-articular injection of diluted gadolinium. Consistently good quality images were obtained, and no complications were clinically detected following MR arthrography. Cranial cruciate ligament abnormalities were seen in six dogs, meniscal abnormalities were visualized in nine menisci, and synovitis and medial ligament strain were seen in eight dogs. Surgical and post-mortem confirmation of these findings is discussed in seven dogs. Although MR arthrography adds an invasive procedure to conventional MR imaging, it can provide useful information on pathologic changes in the canine stifle joint.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10850868/