Ultrasound Essentials: 5 Findings That Cannot Be Missed 

Gregory Lisciandro, DVM, DABVP, DACVECC

Using the ultrasound probe as a clinical tool is the next major advancement in veterinary medicine, granting veterinarians the power to “see” a patient’s problem list. In this lesson, we will discuss the top 5 findings that everyone should be able to identify on ultrasound. We will include a case-based discussion to help with patient selection and discuss how findings guide further diagnostics and treatment options.

After this lesson, participants will be able to:

1. Understand AFAST and the target organ approach including basic imaging of the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, urinary bladder and spleen.
2. Identify free fluid in the abdomen and apply the abdominal fluid scoring system to patient assessment and treatment.
3. Accurately diagnose pleural and pericardial effusion.
4. Identify the caudal vena cava for patient volume assessment.
5. Correctly locate B lines on lung ultrasound to assess for pulmonary interstitial alveolar fluid.