Advanced Imaging Techniques Flashcards
What are the uses of CT imaging?
Gives multiple detailed anatomical reconstructions from one scan
Especially good for bony structures
Less soft tissue detail seen than with MRI, but can use contrast agents
Scanning time shorter than with MRI so movement (from respiration) less of a problem
Can image thorax (lung) easily, unlike MRI
What are the advantages of CT imaging?
Excellent bone detail
Ability to create 3D reconstructions of structures
Can be used to create 3D models for surgical planning
Custom-made surgical implants
What are the disadvantages of CT imaging?
Limited availability in general practice
Expensive (although < MRI)
Scan time is several seconds - quicker than MRI but slower than X-ray
Uses ionising radiation (higher patient doses than radiography)
What are the uses of scintigraphy imaging?
Detection of skeletal injury in horses (areas that are difficult to radiograph / lesions not detectable radiographically / cases where it is difficult to localise source of lameness)
Detection of thyroid nodules (especially ectopic tissue) in hyperthyroid cats
What are the advantages of scintigraphy imaging?
Increasingly available in larger equine practices - less so in small animal practices
Uptake of bound isotope depends on metabolism/activity, and not just anatomy, so element of functional assessment
What are the disadvantages of scintigraphy imaging?
Uses ionising radiation, so same risks to operator and patient as X-rays
Patient remains radioactive for some time afterwards (patient care, disposal considerations)
Poor anatomical detail, so can be difficult to interpret images
Additional legislation applies (Environmental Agency)
What are the uses of MRI imaging?
Neurology cases (spine, brain)
Soft tissue lesions
Bone detail not great but can see soft tissue within, e.g. bone marrow oedema
Accurate assessment of extent of spread of a lesion (retrobulbar/nasal lesions, pelvic masses)
