A new open-access educational video provides a clear, step-by-step demonstration of how to perform a diagnostic venogram of the equine foot, a technique most commonly used to assess vascular changes associated with laminitis.
Produced by Amy Santonastaso, alongside Travis Burns and Elaine Claffey, the video is designed as a practical learning resource for veterinarians, farriers, podiatrists and others involved in the diagnosis and management of complex hoof pathology.
Why venography matters
Venography of the equine digit allows clinicians to visualise the blood supply within the foot by tracking the distribution of contrast medium on radiographs. This is particularly valuable in cases of laminitis, where disruption to normal blood flow plays a key role in disease progression, pain and long-term outcome.
By identifying areas of reduced or abnormal vascular filling, venograms can support more informed clinical decision-making, including shoeing strategies and ongoing treatment plans aimed at improving comfort and preserving hoof integrity.
What the video covers
The video walks viewers through a reliable and repeatable protocol for obtaining diagnostic venogram images, demonstrated using a healthy, university-owned horse under an approved institutional ethics protocol.
Key stages shown include:
- Preparation of the foot, including shoe removal and thorough cleaning
- Sedation and application of medial and lateral abaxial nerve blocks
- Aseptic preparation of the pastern and correct positioning on radiographic blocks
- Placement of an Esmarch tourniquet at the fetlock
- Catheterisation of the palmar digital vein and injection of iodinated contrast
- Acquisition of a comprehensive set of radiographic views, both weight-bearing and unloaded
- Safe removal of the tourniquet and catheter, followed by light bandaging
Standard views demonstrated include lateral–medial, dorsopalmar, oblique pedal views and delayed post-contrast images, allowing assessment of both immediate and late vascular filling patterns.
Clinical relevance
Following image acquisition, the radiographs are reviewed to assess the quality and distribution of contrast within the foot. Abnormal findings can indicate compromised circulation and help guide targeted interventions, particularly in horses affected by laminitis.
By clearly illustrating each stage of the process, the video aims to improve consistency, confidence and image quality when venography is used in clinical practice.
An accessible learning resource
For clinicians working with laminitic horses, or those looking to refine their diagnostic imaging skills, this video offers a practical and evidence-based guide to an important but sometimes under-utilised technique.
LINK TO ORIGINAL VIDEO AND GUIDE
