Should cervical radiographs be included in a pre-purchase examination?

Abstract

Cervical radiographs are more frequently being acquired or requested as part of a pre-purchase examination (PPE). Evaluating radiographs allows for detection of diseases which may prejudice the horse's suitability for its intended purpose. A thorough clinical examination is the most important element of a PPE and limits the list of possible radiographic findings to those that can be subclinical. Radiographic findings such as morphological variations of the vertebrae, osteoarthritis and osteochondral fragmentation are often present in asymptomatic horses. Furthermore, current evidence suggests that most findings present on cervical radiographs acquired at PPE are of unknown or low significance in a clinically normal horse. There is also minimal evidence of the progression of subclinical cervical radiographic abnormalities and their future impact on performance. Due to the high level of superimposition that is inherent to cervical radiographs, the reliability of interpretation of these findings is often variable. Additionally, PPE radiographs are often acquired in the ambulatory setting and the limitations of the equipment and environment can compromise their diagnostic value. Therefore, at this time, there is little evidence to support the acquisition of cervical radiographs as part of a PPE.