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Computed tomography (CT) is an advanced diagnostic method that allows detailed imaging of the internal structures of an animal’s body using X-rays. This technology makes it possible to obtain high-resolution cross-sections of the animal’s body, which significantly increases the accuracy of diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatment.
The use of tomography in the diagnosis of neurological diseases:
Computed tomography plays a key role in the diagnosis of neurological disorders in animals, especially when clinical symptoms are non-specific, progressive, or sudden. The examination allows for a detailed assessment of the structures of the central nervous system – both the brain and spinal cord – and adjacent bone elements.
In the case of epilepsy, tomography allows structural causes such as tumors, congenital defects, hydrocephalus, or post-traumatic changes to be ruled out. This is crucial in differentiating idiopathic epilepsy from secondary epilepsy, which requires a different therapeutic approach.
In the diagnosis of brain tumors, CT allows for precise determination of the location, size, and nature of the tumor, as well as assessment of its impact on adjacent structures and the presence of brain edema. The use of a contrast agent allows for better visualization of the vascularization of the lesion and differentiation between solid and cystic lesions.
In cases of craniocerebral injuries, computed tomography allows for quick assessment of the condition of the skull and brain – detection of fractures, hematomas, brain contusions, or displacement of intracranial structures. In emergency situations, it is one of the basic diagnostic tools.
Another very important application of CT in veterinary neurology is the diagnosis of the spine and spinal cord. Tomography allows for accurate assessment of the spinal canal, intervertebral spaces, articular processes, intervertebral discs, and the vertebrae themselves. It enables the detection of pathologies such as:
● intervertebral disc herniation (IVDD),
● vertebral fractures and dislocations,
● degenerative changes,
● compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots,
● presence of paravertebral or intraspinal tumors.
In combination with the administration of contrast medium into the subarachnoid space (so-called myelography), it is possible to obtain an even more accurate assessment of the spinal cord and identify areas of compression, which is crucial when planning surgical treatment.
Computed tomography allows for a detailed assessment of the osteoarticular system, surpassing the accuracy of conventional X-rays. It is indispensable in cases of complex injuries, atypical fractures (e.g., joint fractures, comminuted fractures), and in situations where conventional imaging methods do not provide sufficient information.
CT allows for:
● identify micro- and macro-fractures,
● assess the displacement and rotation of bone fragments,
● provide detailed imaging of joint surfaces and cartilage
● analyze the presence of degenerative changes, osteophytes, joint space narrowing, or cartilage defects.
In veterinary orthopedics, tomography is also used in planning surgical procedures such as corrective osteotomies, joint stabilization, and fracture reconstruction. Three-dimensional imaging allows for the precise development of a treatment strategy and the selection of appropriate implants. In addition, 3D models are sometimes printed based on tomography to ensure a 1:1 fit of bone implants.
Computed tomography allows for a comprehensive assessment of the organs of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis, which is particularly important in cases of chronic, ambiguous clinical symptoms, suspected tumors, internal injuries, or changes in the respiratory, digestive, urogenital, and lymphatic systems.
Within the chest, CT allows for accurate imaging of the lung parenchyma, pleura, mediastinum, diaphragm, and heart. It is indispensable in the detection of lung tumors, emphysema, hematomas, foreign bodies, and cancer metastases. The use of contrast allows for additional assessment of the chest vessels.
In abdominal diagnostics, tomography allows for the assessment of organs such as the liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, adrenal glands, gastrointestinal tract, and urinary bladder. It enables the detection of tumors, cysts, stones, inflammatory changes, perforations, and intestinal obstruction. After contrast administration, CT allows imaging of the location of portal-hepatic shunts (PHS).
Within the pelvis, CT is used to diagnose fractures, hip joint damage, prostate tumors, changes in the bladder, vagina, uterus, and surrounding lymph nodes. Three-dimensional imaging of bone structures is particularly valuable in cases of trauma or congenital deformities.
Computed tomography is one of the basic tools in the diagnosis and monitoring of cancer in animals. It allows for precise determination of the location, size, and characteristics of changes – both primary and metastatic tumors. High-resolution imaging makes it possible to visualize the boundaries of the tumor, its relationship to adjacent structures, and the presence of infiltrates or tissue destruction.
Computed tomography is increasingly used in veterinary dentistry, especially in difficult, chronic cases or those requiring precise treatment planning. Compared to conventional X-rays, tomography offers significantly higher resolution and the possibility of three-dimensional reconstruction of bone structures, allowing for accurate assessment of changes that are not visible in traditional imaging tests.
In particular, computed tomography is used in:
● detecting periodontal diseases, such as tooth resorption or inflammatory or purulent changes affecting the tooth roots,
● assessing impacted teeth, including their position, degree of development and possible impact on adjacent structures,
● diagnosing injuries to the upper and lower jaw – fractures, dislocations, degenerative or post-traumatic changes,
● detecting cysts, tumors, and neoplastic changes in the oral cavity and paranasal sinuses,
● planning dental surgery procedures, such as tooth extractions, resections or reconstructive procedures.
This examination is particularly useful in patients with chronic inflammation of the oral cavity.
In many cases, a tomographic examination is performed using an intravenous contrast agent. The contrast allows for better visualization of blood vessels, parenchymal organs, and pathological changes such as tumors, inflammation, or blood supply disorders. Its use significantly increases the diagnostic value of the examination and allows for a more accurate assessment of the functioning of individual systems.
The tomography examination is performed under short-term general anesthesia, most often inhalation anesthesia, which allows stable and clear images to be obtained while ensuring the animal’s complete safety. The examination itself usually takes a few minutes, and the data obtained can be crucial in making therapeutic and treatment decisions.
Modern veterinary medicine, based on advanced imaging technologies such as computed tomography, allows for more effective treatment, more accurate diagnoses, and significantly improves the prognosis for patients with even the most complex health problems.
