Thermal, or infrared imaging, is a diagnostic tool that allows us to detect and display heat patterns. In our pets, thermal imaging helps us detect inflammation or injury by identifying areas of increased temperature. It is a non-invasive technique, that is used to diagnose musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis, as well as to detect tumours and other abnormal growths. Thermal imaging can also be used to monitor the healing process after surgery or injury. Accurate usage of this tool requires that the pet be sedated, so that we can obtain images that are correctly oriented and positioned.

We are pleased to have thermal imaging in our suite of diagnostic tools at Nelson Bay Vet. It is used where appropriate, in conjunction with other imaging modalities such as radiography and ultrasound to provide a thorough evidence base for the treatment of your pets.

Case study: Cooter

Cooter is a sweet but nervous 2-year-old Australian Cattle Dog who presented to the clinic for limping. His anxiety prevented our being able to do a thorough physical examination at the initial visit, however, we were able to note some changes to his mobility consistent with a problem in the right front leg. His owner elected for further diagnostics, so the next step was to take radiographs under sedation, which also allowed us to do a thorough physical examination of his right front leg. The radiographs were able to give Cooter's owner piece of mind that there were no broken bones! But it was the physical examination that showed us that the problem was in the region of the wrist joint. At this point, Cooter was put on a treatment trial of anti-inflammatories and strict rest. 

We saw Cooter back again after the 14-day treatment trial, at which point we had thermal imaging in the clinic. We trialled it on Cooter, without sedation, and it demonstrated:

• A very slight increase in heat pattern along the inside of the right wrist joint, suggestive of a resolving ligament injury
• Higher thermal intensity in his left shoulder compared to his right, suggesting that he has been compensating for the pain in his right leg by putting more weight on his left

Cooter responded well to the treatment trial, and so at this point he was prescribed a gradual return to exercise. We wish Cooter all the best!