Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Flashcards

Which radiographic view is most commonly used to evaluate the thorax in a lateral recumbent patient?

Answer: Right lateral recumbent

The right lateral recumbent view is standard for thoracic radiography as it provides consistent cardiac silhouette positioning for comparison.

On thoracic radiographs, a silhouette sign occurs when two structures of similar opacity are:

Answer: In direct contact with each other

The silhouette sign occurs when two structures of similar opacity are in direct contact, causing their borders to become indistinct.

What is the principle behind ultrasonographic imaging?

Answer: Reflection of high-frequency sound waves from tissue interfaces

Ultrasound imaging uses the reflection (echoes) of high-frequency sound waves at tissue interfaces to create images.

Which modality is BEST suited for evaluating soft tissue structures of the intervertebral disc in small animals?

Answer: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

MRI provides superior soft tissue contrast, making it the gold standard for evaluating intervertebral disc material and spinal cord compression.

On ultrasound, a structure described as 'anechoic' appears:

Answer: Completely black with no internal echoes

Anechoic structures produce no echoes and appear completely black on ultrasound, which is characteristic of fluid-filled structures.

Which contrast medium is most appropriate for myelography in veterinary patients?

Answer: Iohexol

Iohexol is a water-soluble, non-ionic iodinated contrast medium approved for intrathecal use in myelography due to its safety profile.

The term 'opacity' in radiography refers to:

Answer: The degree to which a structure attenuates X-ray beam

Opacity describes the degree to which a structure attenuates (absorbs) the X-ray beam, appearing white/light on the radiograph.