Contrast-enhanced ultrasonographic findings in three dogs with lung lobe torsion

J Vet Med Sci. 2016 Mar;78(3):427-30. doi: 10.1292/jvms.15-0417. Epub 2015 Oct 24.

Abstract

Lung lobe torsion is rare but life-threatening condition in the dog. Thoracic radiographs and conventional ultrasonography cannot be conclusive for the diagnosis, and computed tomography is useful but is limited by cost and availability. This report describes the findings of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in 3 dogs with lung lobe torsion. Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography showed the absence or reduction of pulmonary vascularization secondary to twisting of the lung lobe around its bronchovascular pedicle in all three dogs. Moreover, contrast-enhanced ultrasonography distinguished partial pulmonary atelectasis from a lung lobe torsion. These preliminary results suggest that contrast-enhanced ultrasonography can improve the accuracy of conventional ultrasonography for detection of pulmonary blood flow compromise in dogs with lung lobe torsion.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Dog Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Dogs
  • Female
  • Lung Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Lung Diseases / veterinary*
  • Male
  • Torsion Abnormality / diagnostic imaging
  • Torsion Abnormality / veterinary
  • Ultrasonography