Magnetic resonance and radiographic imaging of a case of bilateral bipartite navicular bones in a horse

Abstract

We describe the radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings associated with a case of bilateral forelimb bipartite navicular disease in a 7-year-old Warmblood gelding used for eventing. In addition to the radiographically evident partitioned navicular bones, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) also detected other concurrent abnormalities occurring within the foot that have not been described before in other cases of navicular bone partition. MRI not only revealed soft tissue lesions of the podotrochlear apparatus, but also allowed for more detailed characterisation of the recently diagnosed osseous navicular bone pathology. Knowledge of these additional changes influenced prognostication in this case and provides an explanation for why this condition usually results in such a poor prognosis for the return to previous levels of performance in athletic patients.