Radiology: abdomen

Introduction

In the rabbit abdominal radiography is primarily used for the assessment of:
- Urinary tract: bladder Radiology: lower urinary and genital tracts and kidneys Radiology: upper urinary tract.
- Gastrointestinal tract: stomach, intestines, liver Radiology: liver.
- Female reproductive tract: uterus Radiology: lower urinary and genital tracts.
Abdominal radiography is frequently performed in rabbits in the investigation of common signs/findings such as anorexia, decreased defecation, disorders of urination and palpation of abnormal masses in the abdomen.
Exposure factors and positioning for the rabbit are similar to those for soft tissue examinations in the cat.
The relative lack of fat within the abdomen of some rabbits can hinder the evaluation of abdominal organs .

The abdomen of calm rabbits can be radiographed without the need for sedation or general anesthesia. Use sand bags, dim the light of the room, reduce noise, and use gentle handling.
If the rabbit is too nervous to allow conscious, restrain, consider sedation Sedation with midazolam Midazolam.
General anesthesia Anesthesia: overview is rarely required to take radiographs, unless specific individuals or situations. As the level of consciousness decreases, positioning quality increases.
Detail cassettes and films should be used, with as small a focal spot as possible. Use digital radiography if available Radiography: digital.
A table-top technique and low kV/high mAS should be used.
Orthogonal projections (two views) mandatory as in any other situation.