Small Animal Skull Lavin: Chapter 23

Skeletal Anatomy Review: Skull

Small Animal Skull: Radiographic Concerns Proper imaging can be challenging: Complicated anatomy Superimposition of many structures Symmetry is essential Variations among breeds

Small Animal Skull: Radiographic Concerns Indications for skull imaging: Trauma Congenital abnormalities Inflammatory lesions Tumors Degenerative changes Sedation or anesthesia usually required Extra problem? Tongue and pinnae can superimpose important anatomy

Skull: Primary Views DV VD Lateral

Skull: Lateral View Tips & techniques: Mandible should be parallel to long side of cassette Tape can be used for positioning – Keep out of area of interest Pads can be placed under the nose & neck to minimize rotation Ensure pinnae are not superimposed

Skull: Dorsoventral View

DV

Skull: Ventrodorsal View Tips & techniques: For evaluation of the nasal passages and sinuses are located dorsally Make sure hard palate/nose are parallel to table True symmetry is achieved if there appears to be only one structure on radiograph

Skull: VD vs DV

Radiographing the skull… There are many alternate views that can be taken, depending on the area of interest and equipment available

RV-CdDO

RCd Closed Mouth

Frontal Sinus

What view is this? Natural lateral position