Until just recently, advanced imaging diagnostics were generally unavailable to the general veterinary practitioner. That has changed as outpatient imaging centers are opening around the country. In many areas the veterinary practitioner has a complete radiology department at their disposal. Computed tomography, nuclear medicine, and outpatient ultrasound are being offered on an outpatient basis at these centers.
In discussions with practitioners, it appears that they are very excited about the possibility of offering outpatient CT to their clients. Since, CT is one of the most commonly performed diagnostics in human medicine clients are very familiar with CT. The number one question we get from practitioners is “when would I offer a client a CT examination.”
The primary indications for outpatient CT in veterinary medicine are:
- Nasal cavity evaluation: CT is a much more sensitive and specific test for all disorders of the nasal cavity such as epistaxis, sneezing, and nasal discharge. Most referral hospitals no longer even offer radiographs for nasal cavity disease. If you have a dog with nasal cavity disease…think CT.
- Facial swelling or deformity|
- Chewing problems: CT is extremely effective at evaluating TMJ disease
- Ear canal disease: the external ear canal and osseous bulla are very effectively imaged with CT.
- Elbow radiography in young dogs: CT has largely replaced elbow radiography in young dogs at many referral hospitals.
- Portosystemic shunt imaging: new techniques of portosystemic shunt imaging are performed with CT angiography.
- Presurgical screening: Many surgeons will request a preoperative CT evaluation of cutaneous masses before removal to determine how invasive the mass really is.
- Seizure disorders in older dogs: Although MRI is the gold standard for evaluation of intracranial disease, CT can be of benefit to rule out large brain masses in. CT is significantly less expensive than MRI.
- Pulmonary metastatic evaluation and follow up evaluation of suspect pulmonary lesions noted on survey radiographs.
As you can see, CT is an imaging modality with many uses. The ease of scheduling and low cost means that you can now offer your clients the same diagnostics that were once reserved for only the largest referral hospitals.