Diagnostic Imaging



Digital radiographs (known to laymen as “X-rays”) are images captured of horse bone and soft tissue structures.  X-rays are produced by a generator and received by a plate.  The denser a structure is; the less x-rays will pass through the structure.  The result is that denser structures appear lighter on radiographs.  Bone, for example, appears white on radiographs.  Gas, in contrast, is low in density and appears black in color.  Technology has made significant gains in recent years in the field of digital radiography.  Extremely detailed images of the horse’s body are now able to be captured and viewed at the barn or stable.  This ability greatly diminishes the time needed to diagnose certain conditions.  At Performance Equine Vets, we use state of the art digital radiograph systems to assist in capturing the highest quality images.



Endoscopy involves inserting a small flexible tube 1-3 meters long with a camera on the end into areas of the body to visualize structures ordinarily inaccessible. Performance Equine Vets offers both portable fiberoptic endoscopy at the farm as well as video endoscopy which is done in the hospital. Video endoscopy offers several advantages including displaying the image on a monitor for view by the veterinarian as well as the owner or trainer. This allows the owner/trainer to visualize the horse’s condition and assists in providing a better understanding of the disease process involved. Video Endoscopy also offers the added ability to capture high quality digital images that can be saved for future reference.

Endoscopy can be used to evaluate the equine upper respiratory tract, including the nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, guttural pouches, trachea, lungs and the interior of the sinuses. It can also be used to investigate the esophagus, upper duodenum, cervix, uterus, urethra, bladder and stomach.



Ultrasonography is a process used to obtain images of the horse’s body or body parts. It is a useful aid in diagnosing injuries, illnesses, pregnancies or reproductive health, and in some cases as an aid in performing precise medical procedures. High frequency sound waves (inaudible to human ears) are produced by a transducer and enter the horse’s body. The sound waves are reflected back to a receiver in differing amounts depending on the type of tissue encountered. Tendons are much more reflective than fat, and result in a much lighter image on the ultrasound screen. Ultrasonographic examinations are relatively fast, easy to perform, and cheap compared with other imaging methods. At Performance Equine Vets, we utilize state-of-the-art technology to provide you with the best possible quality images possible.


We are always available for a consultation.

If you have any questions and would like to speak with a Veterinarian, please call us at 803-641-0644