Lack of evidence to support neck X-rays in vettings

A new study has found that cervical imaging may be of limited value in pre-purchase examinations

- BECKY MURRAY

RESEARCH has highlighted a lack of evidence to support the usefulness of taking neck X-rays in pre-purchase examinations (PPEs).

A paper by Royal Veterinary College (RVC) researchers has reviewed findings from studies on cervical X-rays, to answer whether they should be included in PPEs.

The researchers said neck X-rays are often requested in vettings – but concluded that evidence suggests “most findings on cervical radiographs acquired at PPEs are of unknown or low significance in a clinically normal horse” – and there is “little evidence to support these as part of a PPE”.

It was also found that there is “minimal evidence of progression of subclinical abnormalities found in cervical X-rays and their future impact on performance”.

Rupert Freddie Dash, lead author and RVC staff clinician in equine diagnostic imaging, told