Lung ultrasound

Lung ultrasound in animals, that is, ultrasonography of the lungs, is a diagnostic imaging tool used in veterinary medicine to assess the structure and function of the lungs. Lung ultrasound makes it possible to visualise soft tissues, blood vessels and the lung surface, and so to identify pathological changes such as tumours, injuries or emboli.

During a lung ultrasound the veterinarian uses a special ultrasound probe that emits high-frequency sound waves. The probe is moved over the surface of the animal’s chest, and the reflected sound waves are interpreted by a high-performance computer, which generates images of the lungs on a monitor.

Lung ultrasound can be used in animals with signs of respiratory disease, such as coughing, breathlessness, changes in breathing or abnormal lung sounds. It allows the veterinarian to identify a range of conditions, including fluid in the pleural cavity, inflammatory changes, interstitial or bronchogenic tumours and emboli in the blood vessels.

Lung ultrasound in animals is an important diagnostic tool that allows the veterinarian to assess potential problems with the structure and function of the lungs. It helps with the early diagnosis of respiratory disease and makes it possible to start appropriate treatment.