MONITORING THE PROGRESSION OF TARSAL OSSIFICATION WITH ULTRASONOGRAPHY AND RADIOGRAPHY IN 3 IMMATURE FOALS

Repeated ultrasonographic and radiographic examinations of both tarsi were performed on three immature foals at individually adjusted times to monitor the progression of ossification, The first examination was performed soon after birth, and all foals were found to have incomplet e ossification of the tarsal bones, Two of the foals were monitored un til ossification of the small tarsal bones was complete. The rate of o ssification varied, and it seemed to be affected by the general health of the foal and by its weight-bearing. In two foals the pattern of os sification was markedly irregular and several ossifying foci were ofte n found within the bones. Ultrasonography was found to be a practical method for monitoring the changes in the outline and echogenity of the bones in the distal tarsal area. Radiography confirmed the ultrasonog raphic findings and was necessary for evaluating the internal structur e of the bones.