Research in Radiology

The septic arthritis, physitis, and osteomyelitis complex in foals requires precise localization and classification of bone and growth plate lesions. Computed tomography (CT) allows for interference-free visualization of the affected structures, whereas the diagnostic value of ultrasonography for this condition has not yet been systematically investigated. The aim of this project is the structured ultrasonographic characterization of normal and SAPO-associated changes in the growth plate complex, with CT-assisted classification of the findings.

To date, thoracic sonographic diagnostics in calves have focused primarily on the lung parenchyma, pleura, and soft tissue structures, while the bony components of the thorax have not been described in a sufficiently standardized manner. Accurate interpretation requires a reliable anatomical reference for the ribs, sternum, costochondral junctions, and adjacent bony structures. The goal of the project is to systematically describe the normal anatomy of the bony thorax in calves using computed tomography and ultrasonography, and to apply these findings to calves with disease.

Dual-energy computed tomography enables a more detailed differentiation of tissue and material properties beyond purely morphological CT imaging. The focus is on the development and clinical application of material-selective reconstructions, particularly Virtual Non-Calcium (VNCa) and Virtual Non-Contrast (VNC) reconstructions. The goal is to evaluate the diagnostic value of these techniques for musculoskeletal and clinically relevant issues in horses.

Caudal epidural anesthesia is used clinically in calves; however, its cranial spread can be influenced by the site of administration and the volume of the injected solution. In a prospective, randomized cadaver study, CT imaging is used to investigate how far an epidurally administered contrast agent spreads following sacrococcygeal or intercoccygeal administration and which sacral nerve segments are reached. The goal of the project is to objectively characterize the spatial distribution of epidural injections in calves and thereby establish an anatomically sound basis for evaluating epidural administration protocols.

In addition to its own research projects, the Radiology Division supports interdisciplinary and cross-species research conducted by other clinical departments. This includes imaging planning, standardized execution, and radiological evaluation of examinations, as well as providing methodological guidance for doctoral and postdoctoral projects. The goal is to specifically integrate modern imaging techniques into clinical and scientific research questions and to harness the diagnostic value of multimodal imaging.