Computed tomography identified mineralisation of the longitudinal odontoid ligament of the horse is associated with age and sex but not with the clinical sign of head shaking

Mineralisation of the longitudinal odontoid ligament has recently been identified in three horses undergoing computed tomographic (CT) examination, but published studies describing clinical relevance this finding are currently lacking. The objective retrospective, analytical, cross-sectional study was to investigate relationship image primary presenting complaint, age, breed, use and sex patient, determine any association signs head shaking, neck pain or restricted range motion. Computed images 96 examination cranial cervical spine, for a variety reasons, were assessed presence mineralisation within ligament. Clinical records reviewed; problem, signalment, final diagnoses recorded potential associations signalment individual with investigated, using univariable multivariable ordinal logistic regression analysis. Final analysis confirmed significant increasing severity age (P = .002) being female (P = .038). There no syndrome idiopathic shaking other investigated sample horses. Authors therefore recommend that significance be interpreted cautiously equine CT studies.