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Diagnostic
Tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what is wrong with your horse, in order to reach a diagnosis.

Cost: $100 to $500

These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.

YOUR VET MAY PERFORM

Radiography, X-ray, Hocks or Tarsus

Cost: $100 to $500

These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.

Summary

Hock radiographs are a standard diagnostic used in hind limb lameness exams and pre-purchase exams. Hock lameness is common in horses of all types and disciplines. Historically, one of the most common lameness conditions diagnosed has been arthritis of the lower, low motion joints of the hock.

Typically, in this series four radiographs are taken of each hock from different angles. The bony structures and joints are then evaluated.

Why A Vet Chooses This Diagnostic

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Related Observations

Your vet might choose this diagnostic test if you were making these observations.

Very Common
Less Common
Rare
more observations
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Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider

This test could rule out or confirm any of the following diagnoses.

Very Common
Less Common
Rare
more diagnoses
BENEFITS
High quality radiographs of the hocks provide valuable information regarding the bony structures within this area. Even if there are no obvious hock-related issues at the time, radiographs may provide a useful baseline for future comparison.

LIMITATIONS

We are becoming increasingly aware of conditions affecting soft tissues in this area, which are not captured in radiographic images.

Additional diagnostics that are better able to visualize soft tissue injuries or abnormalities may be necessary.

your role

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Questions To Ask Your Vet:
  • Will these radiographs change the treatment you will perform today?
  • Will the results alter the prognosis?
  • How much will the radiographs cost?
  • I have old radiographs, can we look at those instead or in combination with these?

further reading & resources

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Brand Name Products

Equine health related brand name products and services.

  • Sound™ Vet Inc.
    NEXT Equine DR™
    The Evolution of Equine Digital Radiography
    Sound™ is the veterinary industry’s #1 Digital Imaging and PACS Company, with uncontested leadership positions in Ultrasound, Digital Radiography, Imaging Education, and PACS Solutions. 
    Veterinary Digital Radiography, Ultrasound, and PACS Image Management benefiting from a combined strength and synergy, driving innovation and advancing an open standard of practice integration to provide you with previously unknown levels of Quality, Efficiency, and Freedom of Choice.
    Sound™ is the veterinary industry's largest and most trusted source for X Ray, Ultrasound, Digital Radiography, Radiation Therapy Equipment, PACS - Distributed Imaging Solutions, Telemedicine, Advanced Imaging Tools, Imaging Solutions Support & Technician Training.

Author: Doug Thal DVM Dipl. ABVP