Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Magnetic resonance arthrography of the canine stifle joint: technique and applications in eleven military dogs.
- Journal:
- Veterinary radiology & ultrasound : the official journal of the American College of Veterinary Radiology and the International Veterinary Radiology Association
- Year:
- 2000
- Authors:
- Banfield, C M & Morrison, W B
- Affiliation:
- Department of Defense Military Working Dog Veterinary Services · United States
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
In a study involving eleven military working dogs, researchers used a special imaging technique called MR arthrography to look closely at their knee joints, known as stifle joints. They injected a contrast dye to get clearer images and found issues like ligament and meniscus problems in several dogs, as well as inflammation in the joint. The procedure was performed safely without any complications, and the findings were confirmed through surgery or post-mortem examinations in some cases. While this method is more invasive than regular MR imaging, it can give important insights into joint problems in dogs. Overall, the technique proved to be beneficial for diagnosing issues in these military dogs.
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: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10850868/