Influence of abdominal elevation on radiographic measurements of the thoracolumbar interspinous spaces in asymptomatic horses.

The objective of this study was to determine if abdominal elevation could induce radiographically visible widening of the interspinous spaces in the thoracolumbar region of standing sedated horses and facilitate the surgical approach to the region. Radiographs centered on T13 and T18 were taken while applying different degrees of tension on a wide strap placed under the abdomen of 7 healthy horses. Then, the interspinous spaces between T11 and L2 were measured following a standardized method. The interspinous spaces widen radiographically between T11 to L2, except for T18-L1. Thus, the reported technique could potentially facilitate the surgical approach for horses with impinging and overriding dorsal spinous processes. Copyright and/or publishing rights held by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.