Radiology for Veterinary Technicians

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Subject and Section
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Part A
1 Discuss the views usually taken of the equine carpus. Be sure to mention any views not normally seen in small animal radiography of the same area. For each view, give the view name and describe the x-ray tube’s position in relation to the animal.
The carpus is round from the outside. This structure allows access to all ends of the limb for excellent evaluation of the bony structures within the knee. Views vary greatly depending on age, breed, and usage (Himani et al., 2019). The views are namely: lateral view, dorsopalmar view, dorsomedial to palmarolateral oblique view, dorsolateral to palmaromedial oblique view, and flexed lateral view. Furthermore, the position of the x-ray tube varies with the size of the animals. The patient must be recumbent on the affected side in the lateral view. In the dorsopalmar view, the patient’s position must be in ventral recumbency, the beam must be parallel to the ground, and the cassette must be on the ground palmar. In the dorsolateral to palmaromedial oblique view and dorsolateral to palmaromedial oblique view. Lastly, in flexed lateral view, the patient must also be in a lateral position.
Part B
1 You were supposed to place the film in the holding tray but instead put it on top of the table during the exposure. Explain how this would affect the outcome of the image and why.
The film must be placed correctly in the holding tray. If done correctly, the radigraphers will obtain the desired results; however, if done incorrectly, the results may be adversely affected. When the cassette is in the holding tray, it takes more radiation to make a good film. As a result, more radiation is required to penetrate the grid and table. As a result of the incorrect exposure setting, excessive radiation, and fogged film, the image may have poor contrast. Furthermore, the image produced may be dark (Buker, 2019). If this occurs, the radiographers will not obtain the required results, and the process will fail.
2 Explain where intensifying screens are located, their function, and how to care for them.
The intensifying screen is housed in a cassette next to a film. The fluorescent image's visible light will contribute to the particular subject of the film. Its purpose is to enhance the action of X-rays by exposing the emulsion to the effects of light and ionizing radiation. Intensifying screens are delicate and must be handled with care. Technicians should clean them with an antistatic solution and a damp cloth. Also, ensure that the screen is dry before closing the cassette. Keep it closed, so no dirt or dust accumulates (Serman & Singer, n.d.).
3 List the cranial and caudal landmarks for an abdominal film. Describe what the most common mistake is for this view in reference to landmarks, and why this mistake is a problem when evaluating the film for disease processes.
The cranial and caudal landmarks for an abdominal film are the femur’s skull, shoulder, spine, and trochanter. The most common challenge with landmarks is ensuring that accurate anatomy is visible in the image. If this event happens, radiographers may not evaluate the film properly. Thus, if an animal is s...