VTNE Diagnostic Imaging 5

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the term 'window width' in CT image display?

Accepted Answer

The range of Hounsfield units displayed as shades of gray

Answer

Window width determines the range of HU values mapped to the grayscale display; a narrow window increases contrast while a wide window shows a broader range of densities.

Question 2

A radiograph of a dog's abdomen reveals a 'string of pearls' gas pattern in the small intestine. This is most consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Mechanical small intestinal obstruction

Answer

A 'string of pearls' pattern occurs when small gas bubbles are trapped between folds in an obstructed, fluid-filled small intestine, indicating mechanical obstruction.

Question 3

During a barium upper GI series, transit time from stomach to ileocecal junction in a healthy dog should be approximately:

Accepted Answer

1–3 hours

Answer

In dogs, barium typically reaches the ileocecal junction within 1–3 hours of administration; prolonged transit may indicate ileus or obstruction.

Question 4

Which MRI sequence is most useful for detecting fluid (such as edema or joint effusion) due to its bright fluid signal?

Accepted Answer

T2-weighted

Answer

T2-weighted sequences produce a bright (hyperintense) signal from fluid, making them ideal for identifying edema, joint effusions, spinal cord lesions, and other fluid-containing structures.

Question 5

What is the recommended technique to confirm correct placement of a nasogastric tube before feeding?

Accepted Answer

Obtain a lateral thoracic/abdominal radiograph

Answer

A lateral radiograph is the gold-standard method to confirm NG tube placement, verifying the tube tip is in the stomach rather than accidentally in the trachea or esophagus.

VTNE - Veterinary Technician National Examination Practice Test

VTNE - Veterinary Technician National Examination Practice Test

VTNE Diagnostic Imaging 5