In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays dive into the realities of tackling challenging imaging cases—from unexpected findings like bullets and migrating microchips, to rare diagnoses and exotic patients like sharks and camels. They pull back the curtain on what happens when imaging doesn’t go as planned, the importance of collaboration with referring veterinarians and specialists, and how financial considerations and anesthesia risks play into client decision-making. This episode reminds practitioners to maximize in-house diagnostics, stay mindful of anesthesia protocols, and embrace teamwork to deliver the best outcomes possible.

Key Takeaways

• Unexpected Findings:
• Metal objects like bullets or plates can render MRIs useless, requiring a switch to CT.
• Microchips can interfere with imaging or migrate to unexpected locations—scan broadly when searching.
• Collaboration Matters:
• Real-time sharing of images with neurologists, surgeons, and specialists helps guide diagnostics.
• Quick communication with referring veterinarians ensures timely decisions while patients are under anesthesia.
• Anesthesia & Patient Safety:
• Sedation/anesthesia is necessary for clear, diagnostic images—wiggling patients lead to unusable results.
• Protocols are tailored to patient age, breed, and health conditions to minimize risk.
• Pediatric and very small patients can pose unique anesthetic and imaging challenges.
• Exotic & Memorable Cases:
• Beyond dogs, cats, and horses, Animal Imaging has imaged hedgehogs, guinea pigs, cheetahs, zebra sharks, stingrays, and soon—a camel named Wednesday.
• Diagnostic Lessons:
• Where possible take in-house x-rays first—they may reveal conditions (e.g., osteosarcoma, foreign bodies) before advanced imaging.
• Don’t overlook ultrasound practice; frequent scanning improves.

Resources Mentioned

• Southwest Veterinary Symposium – Meet Dr. Lon Hays and the Animal Imaging team (last weekend of September).
• Animal Imaging Services – Advanced imaging for equine, small animal, and exotic cases, including MRI, CT, scintigraphy, and ultrasound.
• Veterinary Safety Tips – Use proper PPE (lead aprons, thyroid shields) during radiographs; collimation improves image quality and reduces exposure.

Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists

https://animalimaging.net/

(972) 869-2180

[email protected]

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