Aim of the study. The study presents the application and effectiveness of ultrasound and radiological examinations in cases of fistulas located in the lumbar region. Material and methods. Six spayed bitches of different big breeds were referred for radiological examination. In four dogs, the initial clinical examination revealed the presence of fistula in the sublumbar region. In two bitches, painful mass lesions were observed in the region of the lateral abdominal wall. The ultrasonography examination of the abdominal wall and cavity was performed. In four females, radiographic examination was performed, which in two cases was extended to fistulography. Results. The ultrasound examination revealed the presence of non-physiological areas in the abdominal cavity, caudally to both kidneys. They had reduced echogenicity, characteristic of hyperplastic inflammation. Ultrasound examination also revealed the presence of structures characteristic of foreign bodies. In four cases, the course of the fistula tract and secondary extensions were visualized. In one female, tumor lesions in the ovary area were connected with the caudal part of a kidney. In this kidney, features of urinary retention were also observed. In two bitches, an enlarged uterine stump was observed. In the examined animals, the survey lateral abdominal radiograph did not reveal any pathological changes. Only in one animal, changes in the skeletal system were found. Radiographs performed in dorsal recumbency were differentiated between individual animals. Contrast examinations showed the course and secondary extensions of the fistula canal in both lateral and ventrodorsal projection. Lateral contrast radiographs revealed a significant spreading of fistula cavities and secondary extensions along the fascia lines of the abdominal wall. Conclusions. Ultrasound examination plays an important role in the diagnosis of fistulas, making it possible to perform a detailed evaluation of parenchymal organs and infected soft tissues, as well as to identify foreign bodies. However, it cannot be effectively used for a precise evaluation of the size of changes and relationships between fistula cavities and canals. Fistulography seems to be the most reliable for this purpose.
JavaScript jest wyłączony w Twojej przeglądarce internetowej. Włącz go, a następnie odśwież stronę, aby móc w pełni z niej korzystać.