Diagnostic Imaging of Alimentary Tract

Question 1

See if you Can ID the normal landmarks on this normal radiograph of a cat

Answer 1

Question 2

What are the differences between this normal VD radiograph of a dog and cat?

Answer 2

Pylorus is more central in the cat Orientation of stomach changes on radiography (more cranial/right side)

Question 3

Where does gas move (in relation to table)

Answer 3

Gas moves away from x-ray table (up)

Question 4

Where in the GIT will gas be most visible on x-ray in LL recumbency? How can you remember this?

Answer 4

LL = Py - L - orus
Gas will be in pylorus (connection between stomach and SI) and duodenum

Question 5

What is the abnormality in this radiograph?

Answer 5

Question 6

What is this condition? What is happening to the structures of the GIT?
What other organ can sometimes follow?

Answer 6

GDV - pylorus and fundus switch spots because of gaseous distension (double bubble)
- Pylorus = ventral
- Fundus = dorsal
Sometimes spleen can follow

Question 7

How do you determine intestinal dilation by looking at radiographs? What do you compare the size of the intestine to?

Answer 7

Intestinal dilation = intestine diameter > 1.6 x height of vertebrae L5

Question 8

What is a gravel sign? What does this indicate?

Answer 8

Small collection of opacities on radiograph
Sign of chronic obstruction (calcified contents of whatever animal is eating)

Question 9

Will all GIT cases have abnormality on imaging?

Answer 9

No