to learn more about Thermal Imaging - Vetel Diagnostics

About FLIR Systems
With over 40 years experience and more
than 30,000 of its IR cameras in use, FLIR is
the undisputed global leader in infrared
systems. From industrial to military applications,
thermography professionals have
made FLIR their number one choice. No
other company offers such a wide range of
infrared cameras, software, service, training
and support.
FLIR’s ThermaCAM series of thermal imaging
cameras have long set the standard for
thermographic testing and analysis. Today
they are the most widely used non-contact
temperature measurement infrared cameras
in the world.
The Global Leaders in Infrared Cameras
FLIR Systems, Boston
Americas Thermography Center
16 Esquire Rd.
North Billerica, MA 01862
1-800-464-6372
www.flirthermography.com
Natanya Nieman DVM
Resident Veterinarian
WinStar Farm LLC, Versailles, KY
WinStar Farm uses Flir thermal imagingfor routine
monitoring of thier thoroughbred racing stable
INFRARED SUCCESS STORIES
Identifying the Causes of Diminished
Performance in Equine Practice
Jim Waldsmith , DVM, The Equine Center
Many horses are presented to our practice with a request to
define subtle changes in the horse's gait which are believed
to be associated with a decrease in the level of the horse's
athletic ability.
On clinical exam these horses are many times found to be
"body sore" resenting flexion and palpation in several areas
of their body. The lameness has not progressed to a head
bob or hip hike that can be blocked, yet the owner or trainer
is concerned that stress or injury exists that will effect the
horse's future performance.
In many of these cases the areas of pain and inflammation
are difficult to define and document clinically, and the use
of systemic anti-inflammatory medication is considered.
The risk in this therapeutic scenario is that symptoms may
be masked, and the source(s) of the diminished performance
remain unknown potentially leading to subsequent breakdown
in the horse.
After a complete clinical exam we find thermal imaging
allows a quick and noninvasive assessment of the entire
horse's body. Frequently areas of hoof imbalance, joint
inflammation and abnormal tack wear can all be quickly
identified. By simultaneously identifying and treating all
areas of abnormality and inflammation the horse's athleticism
is improved and risk of further injury diminished.
We have found this protocol to be very rewarding in
our practice producing both client satisfaction and
improvement in the athletic health of our equine patients.
The Use of Thermography
in Equine Medicine
Tracy Turner , DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVS
In equine practice, thermography can detect inflammatory
changes well in advance of other modalities, many times up
to two weeks prior to the onset of clinical lameness.
With tendonitis, a detectable rise in temperature occurs
prior to evidence of pain and swelling. As tendons heal,
temperatures become more uniform but remain elevated,
meaning thermal changes correlate well to structural
reorganization. In cases of capsulitis/synovitis, as the joint
becomes inflamed, the thermal pattern reveals an oval
area of inflammation just over the joint.
A particularly valuable use of Thermography is in detecting
muscle injury. In addition to locating inflammation within a
muscle or muscle group, atrophy can be detected before it
is clinically apparent, presenting as areas of consistent
decreased circulation and regional cooling when compared
to the opposite side. Likewise, nerve injury due to direct
trauma, secondary injury, or any disease that can affect blood
flow can also be visualized with thermography.
The uses in equine practice are endless:
• Pre-purchase examinations,
• Saddle fit,
• A training aid to avoid injury
(e.g., detecting hot shins before they buck),
• Hoof balance and concussion injuries
• Laminitis detection, and other foot diseases.
• Capsulitis /synovitis in joints,
• Tendonitis, (following tendon healing after injury),
• Detecting muscle injury, atrophy and strain
• Circulatory changes before and after exercise.
By utilizing Thermal Imaging, on a regular basis, in my
clinical practice I find I am more able to efficiently and
effectively locate both clinical and sub-clinical disease.
Jim Waldsmith
DVM, The Equine Center
Tracy Turner
DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVS
"Thermography tells the
practitioner what he didn't
know he didn't know."
For Veterinary Thermal Imaging call
1 800 458-8890
or visit veteldiagnostics.com