Dual-Energy Computed Tomography (DECT) is an advanced imaging technique that offers several advantages for detecting bone edema-like lesions in horses and small animals by using virtual-non-calcium imaging. One of the primary benefits is its ability to differentiate between various tissue types based on their specific energy absorption profiles.

Another innovative application of DECT is collagen density mapping. This is especially useful in evaluating the integrity and health of connective tissues, such as tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. 

The objectives are to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and efficiency of DECT virtual-non-calcium imaging in detecting bone edema-like lesions, as well as collagen density mapping in identifying orthopedic soft tissue lesions in horses and small animals. This assessment will be conducted by evaluating both DECT techniques in agreement to the gold standard diagnostic technique for both lesions, being magnetic resonance imaging.