Laura J. Armbrust, DVM, DACVR

Clipping the hair over the last 2-3 intercostal spaces and extending the area dorsally is important for complete visualization of the liver, particularly in deep chested dog or dogs with small livers.

Clipping the hair over the last 2-3 intercostal spaces and extending the area dorsally is important for complete visualization of the right kidney in the dog.

Clipping the hair and applying alcohol and ultrasound gel is important for maximizing image quality. Ultrasound of the bladder should be performed with the bladder distended; therefore, the patient should not urinate prior to the exam. If the bladder is small and disease is suspected waiting until it fills or filling the bladder with isotonic saline is recommended.

Clipping the hair and applying alcohol and ultrasound gel is important for maximizing image quality. Ultrasound of the entire abdomen is recommended to evaluate for lymphadenopathy, effusions and vascular abnormalities.

The patient should be fasted prior to ultrasonography if possible to decrease the amount of gas and ingesta. A high frequency transducer is important (> 7.5 MHz) to maximize resolution and evaluate wall layering.

Thoracic radiographs should be performed prior to thoracic ultrasound. Air is a barrier to ultrasound imaging; therefore, assessment must be made on radiographs to determine if a lesion will be visible.