THERMOGRAPHY

Thermography is the pictorial representation of an object’s surface temperature. It is very useful in the detection of inflammation, as localized heat is one of the cardinal signs of imflammation. Infrared thermography produces colour-coded images of temperature gradients to act as indices of local perfusion. Although thermographic images mesure only skin temperature, they do reflect alterations in the circulation of deeper tissues, making them useful in locating areas of injury.

Diseased tissues may have reduced blood supply either because of swelling, thrombosis of vessel, muscle atrophy, or pain. Infrared cameras are up to ten times more sensitive than the hand in detecting surface temperature inconsistencies.

Thermography can be used in the examination of varied animal species: zoos and wildlife parks use thermography to examine animals at a secure distance, dispensing with the necessity of restraining animals for examinations. Wildlife population surveys can better determine local populations with the help of this technology.

For Horses

Due its short coat, the horse allows for excellent thermographic imaging. The advantages are:
-  early detection of problems
-  diagnosis of stress fractures, tendon and ligament injuries, joint and hoof problems, muscle injuries
-  vertebral column examinations
-  proper saddle fitting
-  detect hoof imbalance
-  make purchase examinations more secure

Further advantages of this equipment:

-  portable, battery-generated
-  memory-card storage for extensive measuring-data
-  software availability for image analysis