MRI

Blue Ridge Equine Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a valuable tool for

Valley Office

55 Mint Spring Circle

Staunton, VA 24401

540/ 460-5702

diagnosing lameness problems in performance horses. The MRI can be superior in its imaging capabilities to radiographs and ultrasound because it is able to show more detail, and with better resolution. It is also capable of penetrating the hoof, which cannot be done by ultrasound. MRI can help identify abnormalities in both bone and the supporting soft tissues, like tendons and ligaments. The benefit of MRI to the patients it its ability to make accurate diagnosis, which is the most important factor in helping horses return to their intended use.

The MRI system that BREC will be using is a high field system that is equivalent in strength to the 1.5 MRI system used in most human hospitals for musculoskeletal assessment and diagnosis.

BREC's affiliation with MREquine, www.mrequine.com, will minimize the travel time and expense in securing the advantages of MRI for your horse over permanent machines. The MRI will be available at BREC two days a month; we will take appointments to allow us to get your horse scanned around your schedule. Typically, patients can be dropped off the day before, or first thing in the morning the day of the appointment, as there are certain preparations necessary for each horse. Horses can usually be picked up the same day of the scan.

Images produced will be interpreted by experienced equine radiologists. Clients will receive a CD for their own records on the day of the MRI exam, and the final interpretation will be available within 24-48 hours after the scan is completed.

If you are interested in this service for your horse, speak with your veterinarian, or call the office to find out more.

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