Interpreting dental radiographs is quite similar to interpreting standard radiographs except dental pathologies and radiographic changes may be subtle and some pathologies are unique to the oral cavity. Also, several normal anatomical structures may mimic pathologic changes.
The most important thing you can do to increase the quality of dental care in your practice is to use dental radiography when evaluating patients presented for routine dental care or dental problems.
Cystotomy is commonly performed in small-animal practice to remove cystic calculi that cannot be treated medically or with other nonsurgical extraction techniques (urohydropropulsion, catheter or basket removal). Unfortunately, if numerous smaller calculi are present in the bladder and urethra, particularly in male dogs, the risk of leaving calculi after cystotomy can be as high as 15% to 20%.
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Linear foreign bodies are a well-recognized problem in small-animal practice.
When taking radiographs, I jot down the technique settings used on the X-ray envelope.
Serologic testing for pregnancy in bitches is complicated because of female dogs' normal endocrine physiology.
Most oncologists perform staging in cancer patients to help determine treatment options and prognosis.
Dr. Niemiec provides his recommendations on these dental care basics.
Hiring is a big decision -- I trust my gut.
Digital radiography is a hot topic in veterinary medicine. Some would even say it is the latest craze. Considering that digital radiography and a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) will initially cost a practice between $50,000 and $150,000, switching from film to digital images is not a decision to be taken lightly.
Since digital radiography displays radiographs on computer monitors rather than as hard copies (film), an integral component of any digital radiography unit is the image display.
One of the first steps in switching to digital radiography is deciding which type of system to purchase.
Digital radiography is gaining popularity in veterinary medicine because it offers several advantages over traditional film-based radiography, including improved imaging latitude, fewer retakes, access to teleradiology, and improved patient care through better image quality.
Digital Imaging Communications in Medicine (DICOM), a set of comprehensive communication standards, was developed to promote interoperability of digital imaging devices in human medicine.
Since few practices can do horizontal beam radiography with standard machines in the operating room, dental radiographic units mounted on a mobile stand can be used to intraoperatively radiograph calculi at the base of the os penis.
In this retrospective study from a university teaching hospital, five dogs with progressive, unilateral forelimb lameness and neurologic deficits having undergone ultrasonographic evaluation of the brachial plexus region were described.
Marketing Tip: April 2006
A grab bar designed for use in handicap-accessible bathrooms makes a great rack for lead aprons.
Pneumogastrography (negative contrast gastrography) involves placing air through orogastric intubation or carbonated beverages orally into the stomachs of awake or sedated dogs.
In this experimental study, 48 Labrador retrievers from seven litters with a high prevalence of canine hip dysplasia were examined throughout their lives for a relationship between a radiographic marker and the development of osteoarthritis in the hip joint.
Recently, a technique has been developed that allows veterinary neurosurgeons to obtain a biopsy sample of the brain: a frameless stereotactic CT-guided needle biopsy.
Accountability is responsibility taken to the next level.
Signalment: Canine, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, 9.5 years old, male castrated, 15 lbs.
Diagnostic ultrasound has become an integral and necessary part of the equine practice.
