Thesis
MRI of the canine ureter: Evaluation of normal dogs and comparison to computed tomography in dogs with ectopic uterus
Washington State University
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
05/2021
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7273/000004279
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/2376/118632
Abstract
Ectopic ureters are the most common cause for incontinence in young dogs, with a higher prevalence reported in females. Traditionally, contrast-enhanced computed tomographic excretory urography (CTEU) has been the diagnostic imaging test of choice for anatomic evaluation of the canine ureter. However, its use of ionizing radiation and iodinated contrast media present potential morbidity to the typical juvenile patient being examined for this condition. Therefore, an alternative imaging modality could be beneficial, especially if computed tomography is unavailable. This study aimed to optimize a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol for evaluation of the normal canine ureter, to assess the effect of furosemide on ureteral visibility, and to compare MRI to CTEU in incontinent dogs suspected to have ureteral ectopia. 96% of normal ureteral segments were observed on retrospective evaluation of 39 thoracolumbar spinal MRIs, which was similar to previously reported values for CTEU. Furosemide administration yielded no appreciable benefit. Four dogs with suspected ectopic ureter were prospectively enrolled. Three of these dogs had a total of five intramural ectopic ureters; one dog had normal ureteral insertions bilaterally. A final anatomic diagnosis was achieved either by surgery or transurethral cystoscopy. Sensitivity was 60% for CTEU and 80% for MRI. Specificity for both modalities was 100%. Substantial to almost perfect agreement was found for both modalities relative to the final diagnosis, as well as between modalities. While these results are encouraging, low sample size and logistical constraints associated with MRI preclude its widespread use in the evaluation of ectopic ureters. It should, however, be considered in situations where CTEU is not available.
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Details
- Title
- MRI of the canine ureter
- Creators
- Dylan Perry Shannon
- Contributors
- THOMAS EDWARD WILKINSON (Advisor) - Washington State University, Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Department of
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Veterinary Medicine, College of
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University
- Identifiers
- 99900896413401842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis