Diagnostic imaging in the prepurchase examination of sport horses: the foot

Diagnostic imaging of the foot is part of the routine prepurchase examination of most leisure and sport horses. Radiographs are regularly acquired by the field practitioners. A good technical quality and knowledge of the normal anatomical variations is paramount for an accurate interpretation of the radiographic findings, as overdiagnosis will lead to inappropriate client advice and potentially an unsatisfied buyer. Advanced imaging is sometimes required for a more thorough evaluation, usually to complement the radiographic examination, to answer a specific clinical question. This article reviews the technical settings and interpretation guidelines for equine foot prepurchase imaging.