ABSTRACT
Science has made tremendous strides in areas that we often take for granted. Because of improved anesthetics and anesthetic machines, plus improved surgical techniques and aftercare, several thousand horses undergo successful abdominal surgery annually. Pressure from the industry and practicing veterinarians has resulted in widespread increased usage of this modern-day technology. Pneumatic splints and equine ambulances at some competitive events, and especially at race meets, greatly improve the chances for recovery from competitive injuries. Arthroscopic surgery has attained increased usage for repairing certain types of joint injuries. Small chips within joints can be removed before abrasiveness of the particle can cause extensive injury. Diagnostic techniques have made some dramatic advances within the last few years. Ultrasound is used for pregnancy testing and to map bone, tendon, and ligament structure. Thermography shows some useful application in diagnostic areas, especially in detecting inflammatory changes.
