Gary R. Carlson, MD, College of Veterinary Medicine

Ultrasonography and radiography are the most frequently used imaging techniques to evaluate abdominal pathology in domestic animals. Ultrasonography can often achieve a diagnosis in small ruminants, with ease of use and virtually no contraindications. Radiography also provides a relatively comprehensive overview, but reduced penetration of the abdomen in larger animals and summation of abdominal organs can limit its diagnostic value. Computed tomography is a newer imaging modality that provides summation-free imaging but can have limited availability and financial restrictions.