EQUINE MRI of NEW JERSEY
(Presented by B.W. Furlong & ASSOCIATES)

B.W. Furlong and Associates is proud to present the EQUINE MRI OF NJ, LLC, located directly across the street from B.W. Furlong and Associates in Oldwick, NJ. EQUINE MRI OF NJ, LLC was the first standing equine MRI system in a private practice setting in the eastern United States. Until recently, MR exams for horses were vailable on an extremely limited basis and were only able to be performed under general anesthesia. Standing MR exams, like those performed at EQUINE MRI OF NJ, LLC, may now be performed using only sedation, thus, eliminating the risks associated with general anesthesia.

What is an MRI?

MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. Without getting too complicated, MRI works by reading radiofrequency signals emitted by free protons (usually hydrogen protons) that are found in tissues.

Why an MRI?

This will perhaps be the most frequently asked question. An MR exam is a very useful diagnostic modality. Most of the horses having an MR exam performed will have already been “worked up,” i.e. they will have had their lameness localized via nerve blocking, and other forms of diagnostic imaging including radiography, ultrasonography, or nuclear scintigraphy have most likely already been performed. The intention of an MR exam is to “fill in the blanks” when these other imaging modalities have led to a non-specific diagnosis. Additionally, MRI allows for the visualization of the soft tissue structures within the hoof capsule. These structures are generally unable to be evaluated using most other imaging modalities. MRI, therefore, offers a “window” in the complex workings of the equine foot.

While the technology of the equine MRI is very exciting, it is very important to remember that it is not meant to replace radiographs, ultrasounds or nuclear scintigraphic scans. It is another means of diagnostic imaging and a thorough lameness work-up will always need to have been performed prior to scheduling an MR exam. B.W. Furlong and Associates continues to specialize in lameness work-ups of performance horses and will be working together with EQUINE MRI OF NJ, LLC to fulfill all of your lameness and diagnostic needs!

Please contact the clinic at 908-439-2821 to schedule an appointment, or to answer any questions or concerns that you may have!