IVC3 - CT Study Protocols

Question 1

Why is positioning a patient in sternal recumbency potentially better when performing a CT of the brain?

Answer 1

It is easier to keep the head straight, though dorsal can be done without issue

Question 2

What is a topogram on a CT and what is its purpose?

Answer 2

The topogram is the localizer that allows you to plan your areas of interest and slice thickness

Question 3

What is the typical CT slide thickness that is used when imaging the brain?

Answer 3

< 1 - 3 mm

Question 4

What is the dose of contrast media used when performing a CT of the brain and in what scenarios should you be performing a contrast CT?

Answer 4

700 - 800 mg of Iodine per kg IV

Essentially all brain CT’s should include contrast aside from maybe trauma cases

Question 5

What plane is imaged inherently with CT? What reconstructions are recommended (other planes) when evaluating the brain with CT?

Answer 5

The CT automatically collects axial slices

You should reconstruct sagittal and dorsal slices for brain CT +/- 3D reconstruction

Question 6

What positioning is optimal when performing a CT of the spine and why?

Answer 6

Place animal in dorsal recumbency to reduce respiratory motion that could affect the spine

Question 7

What is the typical CT slice thickness that is used when imaging the spine?

Answer 7

< 1 - 3 mm

Question 8

What is the dose of contrast media used when performing a CT of the spine and in what scenarios should you be performing a contrast CT?

Answer 8

800 mg of Iodine per kg IV

May or may not be using contrast depending on the reason for the study
* Disk herniation or trauma you would not
* May consider it for neoplasia, other lesions but most of these you would not be using CT for

Question 9

When might you use a CT myelogram?

Answer 9

After performing a CT if further clarification is needed to determine the nature or location of the lesion

In some scenarios switching instead to MRI may be more feasible