How is an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity done in dogs? - briefly
An ultrasound of the abdominal cavity in dogs is typically performed with the dog lying on its back or side, depending on the area of interest. The veterinarian applies a water-based gel to the skin and uses a handheld transducer to transmit sound waves into the body, which are then converted into images on a monitor for analysis.
How is an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity done in dogs? - in detail
An ultrasound of the abdominal cavity in dogs is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the internal structures within the abdomen. The process involves several steps, each crucial for obtaining accurate and informative results.
Firstly, the dog should be fasted for at least 12 hours before the examination. This ensures that the stomach is empty, allowing for better visualization of other organs. The fur on the abdominal area may need to be clipped if it is thick or long, as this can interfere with the quality of the ultrasound images.
The dog is typically placed in lateral recumbency (lying on one side) for the procedure. In some cases, a sedative might be administered to keep the dog still and relaxed during the examination, especially if there are concerns about the dog’s cooperation or anxiety levels.
A water-soluble gel is applied to the abdomen, which helps to reduce air pockets between the transducer (the probe that emits sound waves) and the skin. This gel improves the quality of the ultrasound images by facilitating better contact and transmission of the sound waves.
The veterinarian then uses a linear or sector transducer, depending on the specific structures they are examining. The transducer is gently moved over the abdomen in systematic sweeps to capture images of various organs, including the liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, pancreas, bladder, and intestines.
During the procedure, the veterinarian assesses the size, shape, and internal structure of these organs. They look for any abnormalities such as masses, cysts, fluid accumulation, or changes in organ architecture that may indicate underlying diseases or conditions.
The ultrasound images are typically displayed on a monitor in real-time, allowing the veterinarian to evaluate them immediately. In some cases, the veterinarian might take still images or video clips for further analysis and to document the findings.
After completing the examination, the gel is wiped off the dog’s abdomen. The dog is monitored until they are fully awake if sedation was used. The veterinarian then interprets the ultrasound findings in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and clinical information to make a comprehensive diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
In summary, an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity in dogs is a valuable tool for diagnosing a wide range of conditions affecting the internal organs. The detailed examination process involves careful preparation, the use of specialized equipment, and the expertise of a veterinarian to accurately interpret the images obtained.