Small intestine and colon Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is the normal appearance of the small intestine in a VD view?
Smooth, sweeping, continuously curving tubes
This description helps in identifying abnormalities during radiographic assessments.
What is the normal content of the small intestine?
Fluid, gas, ingesta (if there is ‘overflow’ from the stomach)
Ingesta is typically present after eating.
Why can’t the width of the wall of the small intestine be assessed on radiographs?
The wall and fluid within are of the same opacity, leading to artefactual thickening
This makes it difficult to differentiate between the wall and the fluid.
How should the thickness of the small intestine be assessed?
Ultrasound (US) is needed to assess the wall of the GIT
Ultrasound provides a clearer view of the intestinal wall.
What is the normal size of the small intestine in dogs?
<1.6 x L5 height at the narrowest part
This measurement is crucial for identifying abnormalities.
What indicates a potential obstruction in the small intestine?
If a segment is >1.5 times larger than other segments
This could signal an obstruction, though not definitive.
What is the normal location of the caecum in dogs?
At approximately the level of L3 on both views
This helps avoid confusion with dilated small intestine.
What are the two main causes of small intestine dilation?
- Obstruction (mechanical ileus)
- Gastroenteritis (functional ileus)
Understanding the causes aids in proper diagnosis and treatment.
What is a pneumocolonogram?
A technique to identify the colon by instilling gas into the rectum
This helps differentiate the colon from the small intestine.
What is the most common cause of mechanical gastrointestinal disease in cats?
Linear foreign body (e.g., string, hosiery)
Cats often play with string, leading to this condition.
What is intussusception?
Telescoping of one piece of bowel into another
This condition often leads to partial obstruction.
What is the best imaging technique to assess for intussusception?
Ultrasound
It is easier to recognize intussusception on transverse views.
How can you differentiate between functional and mechanical ileus?
By assessing dilation and the presence of foreign bodies
This differentiation is crucial for treatment planning.
What should be the first step in radiographic assessment of the intestinal tract of a vomiting cat or dog?
Determine if the intestine is dilated
This is essential for identifying potential obstructions.
What are common small intestinal foreign bodies?
- Corn cob
- Nuts
- Fabric (e.g., sock)
Knowing common foreign bodies helps in diagnosis.
What is a common finding with gastroenteritis?
Varying degrees of dilation of the stomach and small intestine
This condition is often associated with diarrhea.
What is the typical movement time of contrast through the duodenum in dogs?
15 minutes
This timing can vary based on individual cases.
What is the significance of the meniscal sign in intussusception?
It indicates gas in the colon outlining the ileum
This sign is not seen if the intussusception is between small intestine segments.
What should be monitored during an upper gastrointestinal contrast study?
- Transit time through the GIT
- Obstruction detection
- Abnormal shape due to foreign body
This study helps in identifying various gastrointestinal issues.
What is a common cause of constipation in pets?
Prostatomegaly, renal failure leading to dehydration
Identifying the underlying cause is important for treatment.
