Scan 'looks into' galloping horse

The equipment allows vets to assess horses while they train naturally

Disease diagnosis in horses could be revolutionised by a new imaging system being used in Scotland.

The Dynamic Respiratory Endoscope lets vets assess live pictures of a horse's airways as it gallops at full speed.

The pioneering equipment could replace traditional methods where a horse is examined while running on a treadmill.

The University of Glasgow's Equine Hospital acquired the endoscope as part of a joint venture with horse training firm, Mark Johnston Racing.

The instrument will be used in the university's newly-launched Performance Horse Clinic.

Dr Patrick Pollock, senior clinician in equine surgery, said: "Within the animal kingdom, horses are considered to be elite athletes because of their unique anatomy and physiology.

"Many of the causes of poor performance are related to the respiratory system and a technique called endoscopy, in which a small camera is introduced through the nose and into the airways of the horse, is frequently used to diagnose disease affecting this area.

"Existing technology allows for a horse to be scoped while it runs on a treadmill. But this is expensive and potentially dangerous for the horse and treadmill operator.

"This new system has many advantages in that it allows horses to be examined in their normal environment under normal exercise conditions and is therefore more likely to result in the correct diagnosis."

Racehorse trainer, Mark Johnston, said the equipment was a leap forward in diagnosing problems.

"The Dynamic Respiratory Endoscope will revolutionise what we know about horses when they are being fully exercised," he said.

"Understanding the airway of a horse is the key to understanding so much more about them and how they function."