Canine radiographs

1. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Canine Radiographs
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Canine Radiographs
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The Head
Tympanic Bullae
MandibleNasal chambers
Larynx
Skull
Frontal sinuses

5. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Skull
Skull: Ventrodorsal (V-D) view
Young Skull: Lateral view
Skull: V-D view, Calvaria
Skull: Lateral view, Calvaria

6. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Skull:
V-D view
Full screen Labels
Pot
For this ventrodorsal view the
endotracheal tube has been
removed to prevent
superimposition with anatomical
structures. Try to identify the
rami of the mandible, the
zygomatic arches, the external
auditory canals and the atlas.

7. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Condyloid
process
Angular process
Rostral alar
foramen
Mandible
Mandibular
symphysis
Occipital condyle
Paracondylar process
Tympanic bulla
Foramen lacerum
Foramen ovale
Zygomatic
arch
Coronoid process
Mental
foramen
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

8. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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No Labels
Nasal conchae
Ethmoidal conchae
Pterygoid bone
Air within external
acoustic meatus
Parcondylar process
of occipital bone
Wing of atlas
Alantoaxial joint
Upper premolar 4
Vomer bone
Zygomatic arch
Coronoid process of
mandible
Angular process of
mandible
Temporomandibular
joint
Tympanic bulla
2
nd
cervical vertebrae
(axis)
Zygomatic process of
temporal bone
Frontal bone
Jugular foramen
Occipital condyle
Pinna
Medial border of
orbit
Atlantoccipital joint
Medial border of
mandible
Condyloid process
of mandible
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

11. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Young Skull:
Lateral view
Full screenLabels
Pot 1
Pot 2
This radiograph shows a typical appearance of the
canine skull in a lateral radiograph. The dog was
anaesthetised for radiography, hence the
endotracheal tube. Dorsal to the endotracheal tube
is a band of soft tissue separating the oropharynx
from the nasopharynx; this is the soft palate.

12. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Frontal sinusOlfactory bulbHard palate
Nasal septum
(cartilage)
Genioglossal
m.
Geniohyoid m.
Body of tongue
Soft palate Basihyoid bone Epiglottis Oesophagus
Longus
colli m.
Ventral
straight
muscle of the
head
Opening of
phargyngeal
tube
Medulla
oblongata
Pons
Fourth ventricle
Cerebellum
Interthalamic
adhesion
Corpus callosum
Sternohyoid m.
Pituitary gland
(hypophysis)

13. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
1
2
3
4
5 6
7
8
9
10
1 = Nasal bone
2= Incisive bone
3=Maxilla
4=Lacrimal bone
5= Frontal bone
6=Parietal bone
7=Occipital bone
8= Temporal bone
9=Basisphenoid bone
10= Mandible
A B
A=Atlas
B=Axis
Infraorbital foramen
Orbit
Supraorbital process
Zygomatic arch
Paracondylar process
External acoustic
meatus
Retroarticular process
Condyloid process
Coronoid process
Angular process
Pterygopalantine
fossa
Mental foramen Tympanic bulla
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

14. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

15. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Incisive
bone
Root of
canine
tooth
Hard
palate
Nasal
bone
Ethmoidal conchae
Cranial border of orbit
Frontal boneFrontal sinus
Oral
cavity
Zygomatic
arch
Coronoid
process of
mandible
Tympanic bulla
Wings of atlas
Endotracheal
tube
Mandible
Soft Palate
Condyloid
process
Hyoid apparatus
Calveria
Sagittal
crest

16. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Skull:
V-D view,
Calvaria
Full screen LabelsPot
This ventrodorsal radiograph of
the same dog, as in the
following lateral radiograph,
shows a distinct opaque,
slightly wiggly line on the mid-
line superimposed on the
calvaria, which represents the
thick mid-line crest that was
noted on the lateral view. This
ventrodorsal also provides a
clear view of the mandibular
condyles, the zygomatic
arches and the external ear
canals.

17. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Condyloid process
Angular process
Rostral alar
foramen
Mandible
Mandibular
symphysis
Occipital condyle
Paracondylar process
Tympanic bulla
Foramen lacerum
Foramen ovale
Zygomatic arch
Coronoid process
Mental
foramen
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

18. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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20. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Mandible
Nasal conchae
Pterygoid bone
Condyloid process
of mandible
Air within external
acoustic meatus
Wing of atlas
Alantoaxial joint
Lower premolar 4
Zygomatic arch
Coronoid process of
mandible
Angular process
of mandible
Temporomandibular
joint
Tympanic bulla
2
nd
cervical
vertebrae (axis)
Frontal bone
Medial border
of orbit
Rostral & caudal
alar foramen
Suture line
Endotracheal tube
Upper molar 1
Alar notch
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

21. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Skull:
Lateral view,
calvaria
Full screen LabelsPot
In this dog the frontal sinuses are relatively large and the crest on the
dorsal aspect of the skull is relatively tall giving the impression that the
calvaria (bones around the brain) are extremely thick in this dog. In reality
it is only the crest that is thick, the bones to either side will be relatively
much thinner. Compared to humans in which the bones around the brain
are very thin and there is very minimal soft tissue coverage, the skull and
brain of the dog are well protected by large chewing muscles and is
therefore relatively infrequently injured compared to humans. This well-
positioned lateral view shows the temporomandibular joints and the
tympanic bullae which are almost perfectly superimposed. It also gives a
good view of the endotracheal tube in the oral cavity and extending down
through the larynx towards the trachea, the soft palate and the
nasopharynx.

22. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
1
2
3
4
5 6
7
8
9
10
1 = Nasal bone
2= Incisive bone
3=Mandible
4=Lacrimal bone
5= Frontal bone
6= Frontal bone
7=Occipital bone
8=Temporal bone
9=Basisphenoid bone
10= Mandible
A B
A=Atlas
B=Axis
Infraorbital foramen
Orbit
Supraorbital
process
Zygomatic arch
Paracondylar process
Jugular foramen
Retroarticular process
Condyloid process
Coronoid process
Angular process
Pterygopalantine
fossa
Mental foramen Tympanic bulla
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

23. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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24. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Frontal sinus
Dorsal tubercle
of atlas
Lateral vertebral
formen
Wing of atlas
Tympanic bulla
Hyoid
apparatus
Angular process
Condyloid
process
Retroarticular
process
Soft palate
Tooth root
Endotracheal tube
Hard palate
Frontal bone
Coronoid process
Zygomatic
arch
Temporozygomatic
suture
Axis
External acoustic
meatus
Atlas

25. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Frontal Sinuses
Frontal sinuses: R-Cd view

26. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Frontal sinuses:
R-Cd view
Full screenLabels
This radiograph is made by placing the dog in dorsal
recumbency and angling the head so that the hard palate is
perpendicular. The x-ray beam is centred on the dog’s
external nares so that the diverging beam passes through
the frontal sinuses and projects them dorsal to the
remainder of the skull. This radiograph is sometimes
difficult to get straight, but is a very useful way of
examining the frontal sinuses which are frequently affected
in dogs with nasal disease or trauma. Notice that the
internal septation of the frontal sinuses is not perfectly
symmetrical; this is a typical normal variant.

27. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

28. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Right frontal sinus Left frontal sinus
Supraorbital process (zygomatic
process of frontal bone)

29. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Tympanic Bullae
Tympanic Bullae: R-Cd, open-mouth view

30. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Tympanic Bullae:
R-Cd, open-mouth view
Full screen Labels
This is another radiograph made with the
dog in dorsal recumbency. This time the
mouth is held widely open and the x-ray
beam directed in such a way that it bisects
the angle formed by the maxilla and
mandible. The rounded thin-walled lucent
structures each side of mid-line are the
tympanic bullae. In this dog the thin bulla
wall gives the appearance of a soap bubble;
it has a similar appearance in cats. In many
small breeds of dog the tympanic bullae are
relatively smaller and flatter in shape. The
commonest abnormality affecting the
tympanic bullae is otitis media; this is visible
radiographically as an increased opacity in
the tympanic cavity as a result of exudate
and/or granulation tissue. Frequently the
bulla wall is thickened as a result of chronic
inflammation.

31. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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32. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Nasal Cavity
Upper cheek
tooth
Petrous part of
temporal bone
Atlanto-occipital
joint
Mandible
2
nd
cervical
vertebrae (axis)
Atlantoaxial
joint
Tympanic bullae
Nasopharynx
Jugular foramen

33. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Larynx
Larynx: Lateral view
Larynx: Lateral view, brachycephalic

34. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Larynx:
Lateral view
Full screenLabels
Pot
This radiograph of the larynx made in an
anaesthetised dog after the endotracheal tube has
been removed shows the oropharynx, nasopharynx,
larynx and cranial part of the trachea, all outlined by
gas within the predominantly soft tissue
surroundings. The delicate hyoid bones and the
laryngeal cartilages and the tracheal rings (which
are partially calcified) are also visible. A radiograph
such as this requires a much lower exposure than a
radiograph of the cervical spine.

35. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Masseter m.
Stylohyoid bone
Ceratohyoideus m.
Thyrohoid
bone
Thyroid
cartilage
Thyrohyoideus m.
Trachea
Sternothyroideus m.
Cricothyroideus m.
Hyoglossus m.
Mylohyoideus m.
Styloglossus m.
Sternohyoideus m.
Geniohyoideus m.
Body of tongue

36. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

37. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Tympanic bulla
Atlas
Wing of atlas Cervical
vertebrae 2
Cervical
vertebrae 3
Cervical
vertebrae 4Soft palate
Stylohoid bone
Epihyoid
bone
Ceratohyoid
bone
Epiglottis
Basihyoid
bone
Arytenoid
cartilage
Thyroid cartilage
Cricoid
cartilage
Air in the
oesophagus
TracheaTracheal
rings
Thyrohyoid
bone

38. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Larynx:
Lateral view,
brachycephalic
Full screenLabels
Pot 2
Radiographs of brachycephalic dogs such as the
Bulldog, Pug or cavalier King Charles spaniel show
why so many of these dogs are affected by
excessive respiratory noise or snoring or dysnoea.
In this instance, the trachea is narrow for the size of
the dog and the airway through the larynx and
nasopharynx is virtually obliterated by collapse of
the thick surrounding soft tissues. Brachycephalic
obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is the name
given to the problems associated with this extreme
conformation.
Pot 1

39. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
CerebellumPons
Frontal sinus
Nasopharynx
Hard palate
Nasal
septum;
cartilage
Body of
tongue
Mandible
Genioglossus m
Geniohyoid m Soft palate
Hyoid apparatus
Epiglottis
Thyroid cartilage
Trachea

40. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1 = Nasal bone
2= Incisive bone
3=Maxilla
4=Lacrimal bone
5= Frontal bone
6= Frontal bone
7=Occipital bone
8=Temporal bone
9= Mandible
Infraorbital foramen
Orbit
Supraorbital
process
Zygomatic arch
Paracondylar
process
External acoustic
meatus
Retroarticular process
Condyloid process
Coronoid process
Angular process
Pterygopalantine
fossa
Mental foramen
Tympanic bulla
Temporozygomatic
suture
External sagittal crest

41. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

42. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Atlas Axis
Soft Tissue
Hyoid apparatus
Trachea
Spine of
the scapula
Shoulder joint
Humerus

43. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Mandible
Mandible: IO view

44. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Mandible:
IO view
Full screenLabels
By placing the dog in dorsal recumbency
and putting the radiographic film in the oral
cavity for a ventrodorsal projection, a view of
the rostral part of the mandible may be
obtained. Just as for the intraoral
dorsoventral, which is very useful for
examining the nasal cavity, this radiograph
provides a nice view of the mandible without
superimposition by other structures. Note
the variation in the size and shape of the
incisors which is typical and unimportant.
Similarly notice the rough appearance of the
bone on each side of the mandibular
symphesis; this is also normal.

45. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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46. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Lower incisor 1
Lower incisor 2
Lower incisor 3
Lower premolar
1
Lower canine
Lower premolar 2
Lower premolar 3
Lower premolar 4
Lower molar 1
Mandibular symphysis
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

47. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Nasal chambers
Nasal chambers: IO view, young adult
Nasal chambers: IO view
Nasal chambers: IO view, dolicocephalic
Nasal chambers: IO view, brachycephalic
Nasal chambers: Lateral view
Dacryorhinocystogram: Lateral view

48. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Nasal chambers:
IO view, young adult
Full screenLabelsPot
An excellent examination of the nasal cavity in a dog
or cat can be done by placing the film in the oral
cavity and making a dorsoventral radiograph so that
only the nasal cavity appears in the image. This view
enables detailed comparison of left and right sided
structures. Notice that the nasal cavity is filled with
numerous tiny linear structures oriented roughly
parallel to the mid-line in the rostral part of the nasal
cavity, and forming a more complicated pattern in the
middle of the nasal cavity. These small lines
represent the shadows cast by the nasal turbinates
and their mucosae. This is a young adult dog; it has
its permanent dentition (no deciduous teeth are
visible) but the adult teeth appear very hollow
because the pulp cavity is wide and the dentine is
thin. As a dog ages the pulp cavity steadily reduces
in size so the teeth become progressively more solid
in appearance.

49. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Canine
Upper premolar 1-4
Upper incisors 1-3
Interincisive suture
Palatine fissure
Upper Molar 1 & 2
Zygomatic arch
Pterygoid bone
Rostral alar
foramen
Foramen ovale
Tympanic bulla
Paracondylar process
Choanal region
Presphenoid bone
Basisphenoid bone
Foramen lacerum
Jugular foramen
Hypoglossal canal
Occipital condyle
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

50. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
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51. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Full screenPot

52. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Nostril
Interincisive suture
Palatine fissure
Superimposed dorsal &
ventral nasal conchae
Ethmoidal conchae
Maxillary recess
Canine tooth
Dental cavity
Upper premolar 1-4
Upper Molar 1
Upper incisors 1-3
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

53. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Nasal chambers:
IO view
Full screenLabelsPot
A similar radiograph to that described
previously comes from a dog of similar skull
conformation, that is mesaticephalic. This
dog is slightly older than the previous one as
evidenced by the relatively smaller pulp
cavities best seen in the canine teeth.

54. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Canine
Upper premolar 1-4
Upper incisors 1-3
Interincisive suture
Palatine fissure
Upper Molar 1 & 2
Zygomatic arch
Pterygoid bone
Rostral alar
foramen
Foramen ovale
Tympanic bulla
Paracondylar process
Choanal region
Presphenoid bone
Basisphenoid bone
Foramen lacerum
Jugular foramen
Hypoglossal canal
Occipital condyle
Pot Comparison
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55. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
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57. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Nostril
Interincisive suture
Palatine fissure
Superimposed dorsal &
ventral nasal conchae
Ethmoidal conchae
Maxillary recess
Canine tooth
Dental cavity
Upper premolar 4
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

58. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Nasal chambers:
IO view, dolicocephalic
Full screenLabelsPot
In a long nosed dog the nasal cavity is relatively
elongated and a wide diastema is frequently present
between the first and third premolars.

59. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Canine
Upper premolar 1-4
Upper incisors 1-3
Interincisive suture
Palatine fissure
Upper Molar 1 & 2
Zygomatic arch
Pterygoid bone
Rostral alar
foramen
Foramen ovale
Tympanic bulla
Paracondylar process
Choanal region
Presphenoid bone
Basisphenoid bone
Foramen lacerum
Jugular foramen
Hypoglossal canal
Occipital condyle
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

60. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
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61. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
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62. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Nostril
Interincisive suture
Palatine fissure
Superimposed dorsal &
ventral nasal conchae
Ethmoidal conchae
Canine tooth
Upper premolar 1
Upper Molar 1
Upper incisors 1-3
Upper premolar 4
Upper Molar 2
Large gap
between 1
st
&
3
rd
premolar
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

63. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Nasal chambers:
IO view,
brachycephalic
Full screenLabelsPot
This radiograph of the nasal cavity of a
Bulldog clearly shows foreshortening
of the nasal cavity compared to that
seen in mesaticephalic or
dolicocephalic dogs. With this
foreshortening comes a relative
increase in opacity of the nasal
structures because the skull is
relatively thicker at this point and
because of the abundant, often folded,
skin over the face. Orientation of the
teeth in the maxillary arcade is often
abnormal in such dogs, with the third
premolar aligned roughly transverse to
the arcade in this example.

64. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Canine
Upper premolar 1-4
Upper incisors 1-3
Interincisive suture
Palatine fissure
Upper Molar 1 & 2
Zygomatic arch
Pterygoid bone
Rostral alar
foramen
Foramen ovale
Tympanic bulla
Paracondylar process
Choanal region
Presphenoid bone
Basisphenoid bone
Foramen lacerum
Jugular foramen
Hypoglossal canal
Occipital condyle
Pot Comparison
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65. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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66. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
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67. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Nostril
Interincisive suture
Palatine fissure
Superimposed
dorsal & ventral
nasal conchae
Ethmoidal conchae
Canine tooth
Upper premolar 1-4
Upper Molar 1
Upper incisors 1-3
Upper Molar 2
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

68. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Nasal chambers:
Lateral view
Full screenLabels
The nasal cavity of the dog requires a lower
radiographic exposure than the thicker parts of the
skull because it contains air and relatively delicate
bones, hence a separate lateral radiograph is
sometimes made specifically of the nasal region.
One problem with this radiograph is that it
superimposes the left and right sides. Many dogs
with nasal disease have a symmetrical or even
unilateral lesions which are difficult to recognise on
the lateral view in which they are superimposed by
the normal (unaffected) side. The same comment
applies to the frontal sinuses.

69. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

70. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Incisive bone
Root of
canine teeth
Hard palate
Nasal bone
Ethmoidal
conchae
Cranial
border of
orbit
Frontal bone
Frontal sinus
Oral cavity
Zygomatic arch
Coronoid process
of mandibleUpper
Molar 1
Upper Molar 2
U. Premolar 4
U. Premolar 3
U. Premolar 2
U. Premolar 1
U. Canine
U. Incisor 1
U. Incisor 2
U. Incisor 3

71. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Dacryorhinocystogram:
Lateral view
Full screenLabels
This lateral radiograph of the
nasolacrimal duct is made by infusion of
a small volume of contrast medium
through a fine catheter inserted into a
lacrimal punctum. In a normal dog the
contrast flows down the nasolacrimal
duct and drains into the nasal cavity as
seen here.

72. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

73. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Catheter in ventral
lacrimal punctum
Nasolacrimal
duct
Duct discharging into floor of vestibule

74. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Thoracic Limb
The Shoulder
The Elbow
The Radius and Ulna
The Carpus
The Manus

75. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Shoulder
Shoulder: lateral view
Shoulder: Cr-Cd view
Large Shoulder: lateral view
Immature Shoulder: lateral view
Immature shoulder arthrogram: lateral view

76. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Shoulder:
lateral view
This radiograph is usually made with
the animal in lateral recumbency
with the shoulder of interest on the
down side. The limb is protracted to
move the humerus away from the
sternum for clearer visualisation.
The tip of an endotracheal tube is
superimposed on the scapula in this
dog. If the tube is inadvertently
superimposed over the shoulder
joint, it can interfere with
visualisation of the bones.
LabelsPotFull screen

77. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Dorsal border of scapula
Infraspinatus m
Supraspinatus m
Stump of trapezius m
Teres major m
Latissimus dorsi m
Triceps brachii m – long
head
Olecranon
Triceps brachii m – lateral
head
Cleidobrachialis m
Extensor carpi radialis m
Common digital extensor m.
Rhomboid m
Deltoid m
Brachioradialis m
Lateral digital extensor m
Ulnaris lateralis m Flexor carpi ulnaris
Canine Forelimb;
Left, lateral view
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78. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
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79. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
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80. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Supraspinous
fossa
Humerus
Head of humerus
Shoulder joint
Infraglenoid
tubercle
Acromion process
Infraspinous fossa
Scapular spine
ET tube within the
trachea
Supraglenoid
tubercle
Greater tubercle
Deltoid tuberosity
No labels
Intertubercular
groove
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

81. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Shoulder:
Cr-Cd view
This radiograph is usually made with the animal in
dorsal recumbency with the limb extended.

Notice that the medial aspect of the scapulohumeral
joint is wider on the medial aspect giving it a wedged-
shape; this is completely normal in the dog and cat.
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82. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Dorsal border of the scapula
Rhomboid m
Supraspinatous m Cut edge of trapezius pars cervicalis
Deltoid m
Triceps brachii m – lateral head
Cleidobrachialis m
Brachialis m
Extensor carpi radialis m
Common digital extensor m
Lateral epicondyle of humerus
Medial epicondyle of humerus
Canine Forelimb;
Left, cranial view.
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83. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
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84. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
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85. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Acromion process
Scapula spine
Glenoid cavity of scapula
Greater Tubercle
Tricipital line
Deltoid Crest
Supraglenoid tubercle
Teres major tuberosity
Lesser tubercle of humerus
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

86. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Large Shoulder:
lateral view
Labels
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Full screen
An example of the shoulder in a larger
dog, which has a somewhat flatter
humeral head and wider glenoid fossa
than the other dog.

87. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Dorsal border of scapula
Infraspinatus m
Supraspinatus m
Stump of trapezius m
Teres major m
Latissimus dorsi m
Triceps brachii m – long
head
Olecranon
Triceps brachii m – lateral
head
Cleidobrachialis m
Extensor carpi radialis m
Common digital extensor m.
Rhomboid m
Deltoid m
Brachioradialis m
Lateral digital extensor m
Ulnaris lateralis m Flexor carpi ulnaris
Canine Forelimb;
Left, lateral view
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

88. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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© Royal Veterinary College 2009

89. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Full screen
Pot
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

90. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Supraspinous
fossa
Supraglenoid
tubercle
Greater tubercle
Deltoid tuberosity
Scapula spine
Infraspinous fssa
Infraglenoid tubercle
Head of humerus
Intertubercular
groove
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

91. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Shoulder:
lateral view
Labels
Pot
Full screen
The proximal humeral physis is open.
This dog is 6-9m old.

92. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Dorsal border of scapula
Infraspinatus m
Supraspinatus m
Stump of trapezius m
Teres major m
Latissimus dorsi m
Triceps brachii m – long
head
Olecranon
Triceps brachii m – lateral
head
Cleidobrachialis m
Extensor carpi radialis m
Common digital extensor m.
Rhomboid m
Deltoid m
Brachioradialis m
Lateral digital extensor m
Ulnaris lateralis m Flexor carpi ulnaris
Canine Forelimb;
Left, lateral view
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

93. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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© Royal Veterinary College 2009

94. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Full screen
Pot
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

95. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Supraspinous
fossa
Supragleoid
tubercle
Greater tubercle
Deltoid tuberosity
Scapula spine
Infraspinous fossa
Infraglenoid tubercle
Head of humerus
Prox. Physis of
humerus
Intertubecular
groove
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

96. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Compared to the previous radiograph,
5ml of radiographic contrast medium
(iohexol @100mgI/ml) was injected into
the scapulohumeral joint using a lateral
approach. The joint is quite well filled,
showing the caudal compartment and
the cranial compartment. The cranial
compartment surrounds the biceps
tendon, which appears as a curvilinear
filling defect within the contrast medium.
This appearance is normal.
Immature Shoulder
Arthrogram:
Lateral view
LabelsFull screen

97. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

98. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Contrast media
within the shoulder
joint.
Contrast media in
the intertubecular
groove, beneath the
biceps tendon.
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

99. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Elbow
Immature Elbow: lateral view
Immature Elbow: Cr-Cd view
Flexed Elbow: lateral view
Immature Elbow: Cr-Med, Cd-Lat Oblique view
Immature Elbow: Cr-Lat, Cd-Med Oblique view

100. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Elbow:
Lateral view
LabelsPot
Full screen
This joint belongs to a 6m
old Labrador. Notice the
open growth plates at the
distal humerus, proximal
radius and olecranon
process of the ulna.

101. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Humerus
Lateral humeral
epicondyle
Lateral collateral
ligament
Supinator m
Radius
Stump of triceps brachii m
Olecranon
Anconeus m
Interosseus space
Ulna
Canine Elbow;
Lateral view
Pot Comparison

102. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

103. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Full screenPot

104. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Humerus
Craniolateral
tuberosity of olecranon
Anconeal
process
UlnaRadius
(Olecranon)
Medial epicondyle
of humerus
Lat.
Epicondylar
crest
Med. border of
supratrochlear
foramen
Elbow
(cubital)Joint
Prox. Radial
physis
Prox. Ulnar epiphysis
Lat. Epicondyle
of humerus
Prox. Ulnar physis
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

105. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Young Elbow:
Cr-Med, Cd-Lat
Oblique view
LabelsPotFull screen
The elbow has been pronated, so the
articulation between the humerus and
the radius is emphasised. This
radiograph is rarely made in clinical
practice.

106. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Humerus
Stump of
triceps brachii –
long head
Craniolateral
tuberosity of
olecranon
Olecranon
Lat. Epicondyle of
humerus
Coronoid process
Ulnar
Pronator teres m.
Flexor carpi radialis
m.
Radius
Canine elbow;
Medial view
Pot Comparison

107. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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© Royal Veterinary College 2009

108. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Full screen
Pot

109. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Humerus
Supratrochlear
foramen
Anconeal process
Lateral condyle
Prox. Radial physis
Radius
Coronoid process
Olecranon
Medial epicondyle
Medial condyle
Ulna
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

110. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Elbow:
Cr-Lat, Cd-Med
Oblique view
LabelsPotFull screen
In this radiograph the elbow has been
supinated, producing a view of the
medial aspect of the humeral condyle
and the joint between the humerus
and medial coronoid process of the
ulna. This view might be useful if there
is fragmentation of the medial
coronoid process.

111. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Humerus
Lateral humeral
epicondyle
Lateral collateral
ligament
Supinator m
Radius
Stump of triceps brachii m
Olecranon
Anconeus m
Interosseus space
Ulna
Canine Elbow;
Lateral view
Pot Comparison

112. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

113. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Full screenPot

114. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Humerus
Supratrochlear foramen
Articulating surfaces:
humerus and ulna
Olecranon
Anconeal Process
Articulating surfaces:
Humerus and radius
Prox. radial epiphysis
Prox. radial physis
Radius
Lateral Humeral
epicondyle
Medial coronoid
process of ulna
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

115. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Elbow:
Cr-Cd view
Labels
Pot 1
Full screen
The same dog as the previous lateral. Notice
the angular shape of the humeral condyle,
which articulates on the lateral aspect with
the radius and on the medial aspect with the
medial coronoid process of the ulna. The
medial aspect of the elbow is a frequent site
of lesions in dogs with elbow arthritis.
Pot 2

116. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Brachialis m
Radial nerve
Lateral humeral
epicondyle
Supinator muscle
Radius
HumerusCanine left
Elbow;
Cranial view

117. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Humerus
Supratrochlear foramen
Lateral humeral epicondyle
Medial humeral condyle
Coronoid process of ulna
Pronator teres mSupinator m
Radius
Canine right
elbow;
Cranial view
Pot Comparison

118. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

119. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Full screenPot

120. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Body of Humerus
Olecranon
Medial Humeral
epicondyle
Medial Coronoid
process of ulna
Radius + ulna
superimposed
Supratrochlear foramen
Lateral epicondyle
Elbow (cubital joint)
Prox. radial epiphysis
Prox. radial physis
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

121. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Flexed Elbow:
lateral view
LabelsPotFull screen
This radiograph, with the elbow
maximally flexed, is done to
examine the anconeal process. This
is considered one of the first places
that osteophytes develop in dogs
with elbow arthritis and hence this
view is frequently used by clinicians
looking for signs of arthritis.
Suspected ununited anconeal
process is another indication for this
radiograph.

122. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Humerus
Lateral humeral
epicondyle
Lateral collateral
ligament
Supinator m
Radius
Stump of triceps brachii m
Olecranon
Anconeus m
Interosseus space
Ulna
Canine Elbow;
Lateral view
Pot Comparison

123. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

124. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Full screenPot

125. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Anconeal process
Olecranon
Lateral epicondyle of
humerus
Condyle of humerus
Body of humerus
Head of radius
Coronoid process
Radius
Medial border of
humeral condyle
Ulna
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

126. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Radius and Ulna
Immature Radius and Ulna: Lateral view
Immature Radius and Ulna: Cr-Cd view

127. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Radius and Ulna:
Lateral view
LabelsFull screen
This radiograph of a young cross bred dog shows the
normal curved shape of the radius and the straighter ulna.
Open growth plates are visible at the proximal and distal
radius and ulna. The distal ulnar physis is shaped like a
cone, hence has a V-shape in the radiograph. The
accessory carpal bone projects on the palmar aspect of the
carpus.

128. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

129. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Distal physis of humerus
Body of humerus
Humeral condyle
Prox. radial physis
Proximal radial epiphysis
Radius
Nutrient foramen of radius
Distal radius epiphysis
Intermedioradial carpal bone
Distal row of carpal bones
Distal radial physis
Metacarpal bones
Prox. Ulnar epiphysis
Anconeal process
Ulna
Prox. Ulnar physis
Distal ulnar physis
Distal ulnar epiphysis
Accessory carpal bone
Metacarpal bone 1
Prox phalanx of digit 1
© RVC 2009
Caudal border of lateral epicondyle of humerus
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

130. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Radius and Ulna:
Cr-Cd view
LabelsFull screen
This radiograph is of the same limb as the previous. The limb is
relatively straight with some lateral deviation of the paw. This
degree of mild lateral deviation is normal and must be
distinguished from a valgus deformity, which can occur in dogs
following premature closure of the distal ulna growth plate. This
view is useful when examining dogs with signs of angular limb
deformity.

131. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

132. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Distal humeral physis
Lateral humeral epicondyle
Distal humeral epiphysis
Prox. Radial physis
Radius
Distal ulna physis
Distal ulna epiphysis
Distal radial epiphysis
Distal radial physis
Accessory carpal bone
Intermedioradial carpal bone
2
nd
Carpal bone
1
st
Carpal bone
Metacarpal 1
Proximal phalanx of digit 1
Distal phalanx of digit 2
Metacarpal 2
Humerus
Olecranon
Medial humeral epicondyle
Prox. Radial epiphysis
Ulna
Ulna carpal bone
Carpal bone 4
Carpal bone 3
Metacarpal 5
Metacarpal 4
Metacarpal 3
Distal metacarpal physis

133. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Carpus
Immature Carpus: Lateral view
Immature Carpus: D-P view

134. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Carpus:
Lateral view
LabelsPotFull screen
Radiograph of the same dog as in the dorsopalmar
view. An open growth plate is visible in the accessory
carpal bone.

135. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Lateral digital extensor
m
Ulnaris lateralis m
Carpus
Metacarpus
Flexor carpi ulnaris m
Common digital extensor m
Distal limb;
Lateral view
Accessory Carpal bone
Pot Comparison

136. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
LabelsPot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

137. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Full screen
Pot
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

138. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Radius
Distal ulna epiphysis
Distal radial epiphysis
Distal radial physis
Accessory carpal bone
Intermedioradial carpal bone
1
st
Carpal bone
Metacarpal 1
Proximal phalanx of digit 1
Distal phalanx of digit 2
Metacarpal 2
Ulna
Ulna carpal bone
Carpal bone 4
Carpal bone 3
Metacarpals
Distal ulna physis
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

139. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Carpus:
D-P view
LabelsPot 1Full screen
This radiograph of the carpus of a 3m old puppy
shows the growth plates at the distal radius, ulna
and metacarpals. Notice that in each instance the
metaphysis adjacent to the open physis appears
more opaque and wider than the diaphysis of the
bone. This is a normal appearance and should not
be misinterpreted as a sign of metabolic bone
disease.
Pot 2

140. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Flexor carpi
radialis m.
Adductor
pollicis
longus m.
Extensor
retinaculum
Extensor
carpi
radialis m.
Common digital
extensor m.
Lateral digital
extensor m.
Ulnaris lateralis m.
Tendon of
common
digital
extensor m.
Distal limb;
Dorsal view
Deep digital flexor
mFlexor carpi
ulnaris
Accessory carpal bone
Flexor retinaculum
Tendon of deep
digital flexor
tendon
Digit 1
Metacarpal
pad
Digital
pad
Distal limb;
Palmer view
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

141. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Carpal tunnel
Metacarpal 1
Metacarpal 3
Metacarpal 4
Adductor m digit 4
Superficial digital flexor m
Paired sesamoids of
digit 5
Flexor carpi ulnaris
Superficial digital
flexor m
Interosseus m
Adductor m digit 5
Carpus
Ulnaris lateralis m
Flexor carpi ulnaris
m
Distal forelimb;
Palmer view
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

142. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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© Royal Veterinary College 2009

143. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
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Pot
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

144. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Radius
Distal ulnar physis
Distal ulnar epiphysis
Distal radial epiphysis
Distal radial physis
Accessory carpal bone
Intermedioradial carpal bone
Sesamoid bone of adductor pollicis
longus m.
2
nd
Carpal bone
1
st
Carpal bone
Metacarpal 1
Proximal phalanx of digit 1
Distal phalanx of digit 2
Metacarpal 2
Ulna
Ulna carpal bone
Carpal bone 4
Carpal bone 3
Metacarpal 5
Metacarpal 4
Metacarpal 3
Distal metacarpal physis
Distal Metacarpal 2 physis
Distal Metacarpal 2 epiphysis
Prox. Physis of prox. phalanx
Distal Metacarpal epiphysis
Prox. Phalanx
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

145. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Manus
Manus: D-P view

146. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Manus: D-P view
LabelsPot 1Full screen Pot 2
In this radiograph of the manus you should be able to identify the distal radius
and ulna, the proximal and distal rows of carpal bones, the metacarpals and
phalanges of each digit plus a number of sesamoid bones. For example, there is
a small rounded bone on the medial aspect of the carpus, which is a sesamoid in
the tendon of insertion of the abductor pollicis longus and there are paired,
somewhat elongated palmar sesamoids superimposed on each of the distal
metacarpals of digits 2-5. The very small rounded dorsal sesamoids that exist at
the metacarpal phalangeal joints are not clearly visible in this radiograph.
The carpus includes two rows of bones: adjacent to the distal radius is the wide
radial carpal bone, adjacent to the distal ulna is the relatively square ulna carpal,
and superimposed on the joint between these bones is a rounded, opaque
structure, which represents the accessory carpal bone. The distal row of carpal
bones includes numbers 1,2,3 and 4, each of which is found at the proximal end
of the relevant metacarpal, although note that carpal bone 4 articulates both with
the fourth and the fifth metacarpal.
Also note that the first digit (the dew claw) has a very reduced metacarpal and
only two phalanges. Another feature worth mentioning is the large pad on the
palmar aspect of the paw, which creates a lucent line across the distal part of the
proximal phalanges that could occasionally be mistaken for a phalangeal fracture.

147. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Flexor carpi
radialis m.
Adductor
pollicis
longus m.
Extensor
retinaculum
Extensor
carpi
radialis m.
Common digital
extensor m.
Lateral digital
extensor m.
Ulnaris lateralis m.
Tendon of
common
digital
extensor m.
Distal limb;
Dorsal view
Deep digital flexor
mFlexor carpi
ulnaris
Accessory carpal bone
Flexor retinaculum
Tendon of deep
digital flexor
tendon
Digit 1
Metacarpal
pad
Digital
pad
Distal limb;
Palmer view
Pot Comparison
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

148. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Carpal tunnel
Metacarpal 1
Metacarpal 3
Metacarpal 4
Adductor m digit 4
Superficial digital flexor m
Paired sesamoids of
digit 5
Flexor carpi ulnaris
Superficial digital
flexor m
Interosseus m
Adductor m digit 5
Carpus
Ulnaris lateralis m
Flexor carpi ulnaris
m
Distal forelimb;
Palmer view
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

149. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
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© Royal Veterinary College 2009

150. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Full screen
Pot
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

151. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No labels
Distal ulna – styloid process
Distal radius
Accessory carpal bone
Intermedioradial carpal bone
Sesamoid bone of adductor
pollicis longus m.
Carpal bone 2
1
st
Carpal bone
Metacarpal 1
Proximal phalanx of digit 1
Distal phalanx of digit
Ulna carpal bone
Carpal bone 4
Carpal bone 3
Metacarpal 5
Metacarpal 4
Metacarpal 3 Metacarpal 2
Proximal phalanx
Middle Phalanx
Styloid process of radius
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

152. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Pelvic Limb
The Femur
The Stifle
The Tarsus
The Hip
(covered in “The Pelvis”)

153. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Femur
Femur: Lateral view
Femur: Cr-Cd view
Femoral Arteriogram: Lateral view

154. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Femur:
Lateral view
Full screen LabelsPot
This radiograph is made with the animal in lateral
recumbency with the femur to be radiographed on
the table and the upper limb rotated out of the
primary x-ray beam. The thigh of the dog is much
thicker proximally than distally, which means that
making the radiograph of the femur is compromise
between adequately exposing the proximal part and
not over-exposing the distal part. Note that in a
typical dog the femur has a gentle curve. This
means that an intramedullary pin cannot normally be
inserted all the way down the medullary cavity. Note
that this patient is a male.

155. © Royal Veterinary College 2009Sacrotuberous
ligament
Gemelli mm
Medial gluteal m
External obturator m
Quadratus femoris m
Semimembranous m
Gastrocenemius m
Ilium
Deep gluteal m
Rectus femoris m
Adductor magnus m
Abductor cruris
caudalis m
Semitendinous m
Stump of Piriform m
Vastus lateralis m
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

156. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

157. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Ischiatic tuber
Intertrochanteric crest
Lesser trochanter of femur
Body of femur
Medial & lateral sesamoid bones of
gastrocnemius muscle
Wall of intercondylar fossa of femur
Superimposed medial and lateral
condyles of femur
Sesamoid bone of popliteus m
FibulaTibia
Body of ilium
Patella
Head of femur
Os Penis
Acetabula incisura
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

158. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Femur:
Cr-Cd view
Full screen Labels
A corresponding cranial caudal view of the same femur as
in the Lateral Femur radiograph shows that in the sagittal
plane the bone is almost perfectly straight. In this well
positioned radiograph the patella is superimposed over
the mid-line of the femur.

159. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

160. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Head of femur
Neck of femur
Greater trochanter of femur
Trichanteric fossa and
intertrochanteric crest
Lateral border of tuber ischiadicum
Lateral sesamoid of
gastrocnemius m
Lateral condyle of femur
Medial condyle of femur
Patella
Hip joint
Obturator foramen
Lesser trochanter
Ischiatic tuber
Body of femur
Medial sesamoid of
gastrocnemius m

161. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Femoral Arteriogram:
Lateral view
Full screen LabelsPot
Injection of radiopaque contrast medium into
the abdominal aorta has opacified the arteries
of the pelvis and pelvic limb. In this radiograph
the femoral artery and its branches are clearly
seen, mainly on the caudal aspect of the
femur.

162. © Royal Veterinary College 2009Sacrotuberous
ligament
Gemelli mm
Medial gluteal m
External obturator m
Quadratus femoris m
Semimembranous m
Gastrocenemius m
Ilium
Deep gluteal m
Rectus femoris m
Adductor magnus m
Abductor cruris
caudalis m
Semitendinous m
Stump of Piriform m
Vastus lateralis m
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

163. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

164. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Lateral circumflex
from external iliac a
Femoral artery from
external iliac artery
Descending genicular
artery
Popliteal artery
Proximal caudal
femoral artery
Saphenous artery
Middle caudal artery
Distal caudal femoral
artery
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

165. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Stifle
Stifle: Lateral view
Stifle: Cd-Cr view
Immature Stifle: Lateral view
Immature Stifle: Lateral view
Immature Stifle: Cd-Cr view
Stifle: Lateral view, tibial tuberosity fusion

166. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Stifle:
Lateral view
Full screen Labels
Pot
The stifle is one of the most commonly
radiographed joints of the dog and it is well
worth being familiar with its radiographic
anatomy. Note the patella and the two
fabellae, sesamoid bones embedded in the
gastrocnemius tendon. Note also a lucent
space on the cranial aspect of the joint that
is formed by a fat pad between the patellar
tendon and the joint. This is a useful
anatomical feature because any joint
effusion will tend to impinge upon the fat
pad from the caudal aspect and reduce its
size in a lateral radiograph.

167. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Patella
Patella ligament
Fibula
Tibia
Femur
Trochlea
Medial & lateral
condyles of femur
Caudal cruciate
ligament
Femoropatella
ligament
Medial &
lateral
collateral
ligament
Menisci
Patella
ligament Patella
ligament

168. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

169. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Femur
Fibula
Tibia
Medial sesamoid bone of
gastrocnemius m
Lateral sesamoid bone of
gasrocnemius m
Medial and lateral
condyles of femur
Tibial tuberosity
Patella
Trochlea of femur
Infrapatella fat body
Cranial intercondylar area
of tibia
Lateral supracondylar
tuberosity
Sesamoid bone within
tendon of popliteus m.
Femoropatella
joint
Femorotibial joint
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

170. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Stifle:
Cd-Cr view
Full screen LabelsPot
Although it is possible to extend the stifle with a
dog in dorsal recumbency for a craniocaudal
radiograph, it is often easier to place the dog in
sternal recumbency and extend the limb
caudally for a caudocranial radiograph, using the
dog’s body weight to better extend the joint.
Again note the position of the patella, which is
projected some distance proximal to the joint
when the stifle is properly extended. Note also
the medial and lateral fabellae, which are
unequal in size and shape. The fibula lies on
the lateral aspect of the tibia.

171. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Patella
Patella ligament
Fibula
Tibia
Femur
Trochlea
Medial & lateral
condyles of femur
Caudal cruciate
ligament
Femoropatella
ligament
Medial &
lateral
collateral
ligament
Menisci
Patella
ligament Patella
ligament

172. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

173. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Femur
Patella
Lateral sesamoid bone
of gastrocnemius m
Lateral condyle of femur
Fibula
Intercondylar fossa of femur
Medial sesamoid bone of
gastrocnemius
Medial condyle of femur
Medial condyle of tibia
Medial & lateral intercondylar
tubercle of tibia
Tibial tuberosity
Cranial border of tibia
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

174. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Stifle:
Lateral view
Full screen LabelsPot
This radiograph of a five month old
Labrador shows open growth plates at
the distal femur, proximal tibia and
proximal fibula. Note the separate centre
of ossification at the tibial tuberosity and
the wide and irregular physis between it
and the tibial crest. This is considered to
be a normal appearance. In this dog the
medial fabella is positioned slightly distal
compared to the lateral; this is
considered normal variant.

175. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Patella
Patella ligament
Fibula
Tibia
Femur
Trochlea
Medial & lateral
condyles of femur
Caudal cruciate
ligament
Femoropatella
ligament
Medial &
lateral
collateral
ligament
Menisci
Patella
ligament Patella
ligament

176. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

177. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Femur
Patella
Fibula
Medial fabella of
gastrocnemius muscle.
Lateral & medial condyle
of femur
Tibial tuberosity
Distal femoral physis
Head of fibula (epiphysis)
Prox. fibula physis
Prox. Tibial physis
Prox. Tibial epiphysis
Tibial tuberosity
physis
Interossoeus space
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

178. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Stifle:
Lateral view
Full screen LabelsPot
This radiograph of a slightly younger dog
than in the other lateral immature stifle
example shows a roughened appearance of
the femoral condyles, which could be
mistaken for some form of joint disease;
however, this is a normal appearance in a
skeletally immature animal in which the
subchondral bone has not completely
ossified and has an uneven interface with
the overlying articular cartilage. Within a
few weeks this rough appearance will be
replaced by a perfectly regular distinct
curve.

179. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Patella
Patella ligament
Fibula
Tibia
Femur
Trochlea
Medial & lateral
condyles of femur
Caudal cruciate
ligament
Femoropatella
ligament
Medial &
lateral
collateral
ligament
Menisci
Patella
ligament Patella
ligament

180. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

181. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Femur
Patella
Fibula
Sesamoid bone of
gastrocnemius
Lateral & medial condyle
of femur
Tibial tuberosity
Distal femoral physis
Head of fibula (epiphysis)
Prox. fibula physis
Prox. Tibial physis
Prox. Tibial epiphysis
Distal femoral epiphysis
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

182. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Stifle:
Cd-Cr view
Full screen LabelsPot
This is a caudo-cranial view of a stifle.
As in the lateral immature stifle
radiograph, it shows open growth
plates in the distal femur, proximal tibia
and proximal fibula and the position of
the medial fabella.

183. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Patella
Patella ligament
Fibula
Tibia
Femur
Trochlea
Medial & lateral
condyles of femur
Caudal cruciate
ligament
Femoropatella
ligament
Medial &
lateral
collateral
ligament
Menisci
Patella
ligament Patella
ligament

184. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

185. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Femur
Patella
Lateral sesamoid bone
of gastrocnemius m
Lateral condyle of femur
Fibula
Intercondylar fossa of femur
Medial sesamoid bone of
gastrocnemius
Medial condyle of femur
Medial condyle of tibia
Medial & lateral intercondylar
tubercle of tibia
Tibial tuberosity
Cranial border of tibia
Distal femoral physis
Head of fibula (epiphysis)
Prox. fibula physis
Prox. Tibial
physis
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

186. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Stifle:
Lateral view, tibial
tuberosity fusion
Full screenLabelsPot
This radiograph is of a nine month
old dog in which the growth plates
are almost closed. The growth plate
of the tibial tuberosity has an
interesting pointed shape. This is a
normal anatomical variant.

187. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Patella
Patella ligament
Fibula
Tibia
Femur
Trochlea
Medial & lateral
condyles of femur
Caudal cruciate
ligament
Femoropatella
ligament
Medial &
lateral
collateral
ligament
Menisci
Patella
ligament Patella
ligament

188. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

189. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Femur
Patella
Fibula
Tibial tuberosity
Cranial border of tibia
Distal femoral physis
Prox. Tibial
physis
Tibial tuberosity
growth plate
Infrapatellar fat pad
Patellar ligament
Sesamoid bones of
gastrocnemius
Femoral condyles
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

190. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Tarsus
Immature Tarsus: Lateral view
Immature Tarsus: D-P view

191. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Tarsus:
Lateral view
Full screen LabelsPot
This radiograph of a four month old dog
shows open growth plates at the distal tibia
and at the tip of the tuber calcis. The
proximal intertarsal and tarsometatarsal joint
appear wide, which is a normal appearance
at this age; these joints will gradually
become narrower with skeletal maturity.
Note the linear soft tissue structure that runs
from the tuber calcis proximally, roughly
parallel to the distal tibia; this is the Achilles
tendon.

192. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Reflected tendon of Deep Digital
Flexor m.
Cut end of Superficial Flexor tendon.
Abductor digit V muscle
Common calcanean tendon
Proximal extensor
retinaculum
Peroneus longus m.
Extensor digitorum lateralis m
Peroneus brevis m
Deep Digital Flexor tendon
Tarsus
Interosseus m. (Digit V)
Proximal digital annular ligaments
(Distal is missing).
Superficial Digital Flexor tendon
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

193. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

194. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Tibia
Calcanean tuber
Calcanean physis
Calcaneus
Central tarsal bone
Achilles tendon
Tarsal bone 4
Metatarsal bone 1
Tibia
Distal tibial physis
Distal tibial epiphysis
Trochlea of
talus
2
nd
& 3
rd
Tarsal
bone
Superimposed
metatarsals 2-5
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

195. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Immature Tarsus:
D-P view
Full screen LabelsPot
The dorsoplantar radiograph of the same dog as
in the previous radiograph again shows the
relatively wide proximal intertarsal and
tarsometatarsal joints and open growth plates at
the distal tibia and distal fibula. The tuber calcis is
a relatively substantial piece of bone that is
superimposed on the tibiotarsal joint and tends to
obscure it in the DP view.

196. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Long digital extensor m.
Proximal extensor retinaculum
Tibialis cranialis muscle
Distal extensor retinaculum

197. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

198. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Gastrocnemius m
superimposed on the tibia.
Body of fibula
Lateral malleolus of fibula
Tarsal bone 4
Calcaneus
Tarsocrural joint
Sustentaculum tali
of calcaneus
Central tarsal bone
Metatarsels 2-5
Talus
Tarsal bone 2
Tarsal bone 3
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

199. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Pelvis
The Hip joint
The Pelvic bones

200. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Pelvic Bones
Pelvis: Lateral view
Pelvis: V-D view
Pelvis: V-D view

201. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Pelvis:
Lateral view
Full screenLabels
This lateral radiograph shows the pelvis, the lumbosacral joint and the first
few caudal vertebrae. The end of the tail is relatively thin and therefore is
over-exposed in this radiograph and cannot be seen. Note that the two
halves of the pelvis and the coxofemoral joints are almost perfectly
superimposed in this well positioned radiograph, which makes them difficult
to examine because a structure on one side effectively hides that on the
other side. For this reason, it is usual to position one of the femurs more
cranial than the other and to place a left or right marker adjacent to it so that
at least the femurs can be distinguished in a lateral radiograph.

202. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

203. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Caudal vertebrae 1
Hip joint
(right)
Superimposed
ischiatic tuber
Superimposed
obturator
foramina
Pelvic symphysis
Left femurRight femur
Head of
femur
(right)
Caudal
extremity of
L6
Intervertebral
disc space
between L7 &
S1
Vertebral
canal at L7
Left & right dorsal
iliac crest Sacrum
Hip joint
(right)
Body of
ilium

204. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Pelvis:
VD view
Full screen Labels
This ventrodorsal shows clearly the bones forming the
pelvis and the coxofemoral joints. For this radiograph
the dog has been positioned in dorsal recumbency and
the pelvic limbs have been extended fully. The femurs
are parallel and the patella is superimposed over the
distal femur. It is usually necessary to use sticky tape
or a Velcro band to keep the femurs in this position,
which is very unnatural for a dog. Note the shape of
the proximal femur which has a distinct neck and
rounded head that is well seated in the acetabulum.
The sacroiliac joints may also be examined in a
ventrodorsal view, although they are not clearly visible
because they are slightly oblique to the primary x-ray
beam and because the rough surface of the bones
forming the joint means there is no clearly discernible
joint space. The sacroiliac joint is prone to luxation
following trauma such as hit by car.

205. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

206. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Left transverse process of L7
Wing of ilium
Sacrum
Iliopubic eminence
Head of femur
Neck of femur
Greater trochanter
Trichanteric fossa &
intertrochanteric crest
Obturator
foramen
Ischiatic tuber
Femur
Patella
Intervertebral disc space
between L7 &S1
Right sacroiliac joint
Body of ilium
Right hip joint
Lesser trochanter
Pubis
Ischiatic table
Lateral fabella of
gastrocnemius m
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

207. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Pelvis:
V-D view
Full screen Labels
Compared to the other VD Pelvic radiograph this
film has a higher contrast, a slightly speckly
appearance and improved definition of the
borders of the bones. It is an example of a
computed radiograph whereas the previous was a
radiographic film. Vets are increasingly using
computed (digital) radiography to produce images
such as this, which are viewed on a monitor
rather than as a piece of film placed on a light
box. As in the previous dog, the coxofemoral
joints are clearly visible with a normal relationship
between the femoral head and the acetabulum.
The radiographic joint space forms a narrow
curve of uniform width on the cranial aspect of the
coxofemoral joint. The subchondral plate of the
acetabulum is quite broad and very opaque
radiographically whereas the convex surface of
the adjacent femoral head is less opaque. The
narrow lucent space between them represents
the articular cartilage on each side of the joint
plus a film of interposed synovial fluid.

208. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

209. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Wing of ilium
Sacrum
Iliopubic eminence
Head of femur
Neck of femur
Greater trochanter
Trichanteric fossa &
intertrochanteric crest
Obturator
foramen
Ischiatic tuber
Femur
Intervertebral disc space
between L7 &S1
Right sacroiliac joint
Body of ilium
Right hip joint
Lesser trochanter
Pubis
Ischiatic table
Faeces in descending
colon
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

210. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Hip joint
Pelvis: V-D view, Hip dysplasia

211. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Pelvis:
V-D view, Hip dysplasia
Full screen Labels
This radiograph of a young dog shows
subluxation of the left coxofemoral joint,
which is a typical appearance for hip
dysplasia. Note the scrotum on the
midline; some vets will routinely cover it
with a lead sheet to protect the testicles
from x-rays.

212. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

213. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Wing of ilium
Sacrum
Iliopubic eminence
Head of femur
Neck of femur
Greater trochanter
Obturator foramen
Ischiatic tuber
Femur
Patella
Intervertebral disc space
between L7 &S1
Right sacroiliac joint
Body of ilium
Right hip joint
Lesser trochanter
Fovea capitis
Pubis
Ischiatic table
Lateral sesamoid bone of
gastrocnemius m
Faeces in descending colon
Scrotum
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

214. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Thorax
General Thorax views
The Ribs
The Heart
The Lungs
The Oesophagus
The Thymus

215. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
General Thorax views
Thorax: Overweight, DV view
Thorax: Overweight, lateral view
Thorax: Lateral view
Thorax: Left lateral view
Thorax: Right lateral view
Thorax: VD view

216. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thorax:
Overweight,
DV view
LabelsFull screen
This radiograph shows that
although there is air within both
the left and right lung the
cardiac border is indistinct. The
cranial mediastinum is wide as
a result of fat deposition.

217. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

218. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Apex of Heart
Ribs
Diaphragm
Rib 1
Aortic arch
Left ventricle
Cranial vena cava
Trachea
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

219. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thorax:
Overweight, Lateral
view
LabelsFull screen Pot
In this radiograph of an obese Terrier the
presence of intrathoracic and intra abdominal
fat means that the lung is less well inflated
than in the other radiographs. For this reason
intrathoracic structures are more difficult to
see, for example the heart has a much less
well defined border than in the other
radiographs.

220. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

221. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Thoracic
aorta
Tracheal
bifurcation
Pulmonary vessels to
caudal lobes of lungs
Left crus
Right crus
Liver
Left ventricle
Heart apex
Right ventricle
Cr. lobar
Pulmonary
artery.
Cr. lobar
Pulmonary
vein
Trachea
Stomach
Spleen

222. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Sympathetic trunk
Dorsal
intercostal a.v.
Oesophagus
Thoracic
aorta
Vagus n.: dorsal &
ventral branches
Left principal
bronchus
Diaphragm
Phrenic n.
Mediastinum: over the
right accesssory lung
Right auricle Mediastiinum:over right
middle lung lobe
Left ventricle
Paraclonal a.v.
Right ventricle
Left auricle
Right cranial lung lobe
Internal
thoracic a.v.
Vago-
sympathetic
trunk
Middle cervical
ganglion
(sympathetic)
Subclavian a.
Cervicothoracic
ganglion

223. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thorax:
Lateral view
LabelsFull screen
Pot
This radiograph shows a relatively
deep chested dog. The heart, aorta
and pulmonary vessels are clearly
visible, although (unusually) the
caudal vena cava is not. Note that
the trachea, the lungs and other
intrathoracic structures are visible
because of the air contained in the
thorax. When we make thoracic
radiographs, we try to expose the
film at peak inspiration in order to
maximise the amount of air in the
lung and hence maximise the
visibility of intrathoracic structures. In
animals with relatively little air in the
lungs (e.g. because of pneumonia) it
can be difficult to see anything
radiographically.

224. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

225. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Thoracic
aorta
Tracheal
bifurcation
Pulmonary vessels to
caudal lobes of lungs
Left crus
Right crus
Caudal vena cava
Liver
Left ventricle
Heart apex
Right ventricle
Cr. Lobar
Pulmonary
artery
Cr. Lobar
Pulmonary
vein
Trachea
Cranial vena cava

226. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Sympathetic trunk
Dorsal
intercostal a.v.
Oesophagus
Thoracic
aorta
Vagus n.: dorsal &
ventral branches
Left principal
bronchus
Diaphragm
Phrenic n.
Mediastinum: over the
right accesssory lung
Right auricle Mediastiinum:over right
middle lung lobe
Left ventricle
Paraclonal a.v.
Right ventricle
Left auricle
Right cranial lung lobe
Internal
thoracic a.v.
Vago-
sympathetic
trunk
Middle cervical
ganglion
(sympathetic)
Subclavian a.
Cervicothoracic
ganglion

227. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thorax:
Left lateral view
LabelsFull screen
Pot
This radiograph is of the same dog as the
right lateral and shows the difference in
the appearance of the diaphragm with the
animal laying on its left: now the
diaphragmatic crura diverge. This
difference between left and right is often
observed in dogs.

228. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

229. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Thoracic
aorta
Tracheal
bifurcation
Pulmonary vessels to
caudal lobes of lungs
Left crus
Right crus
Caudal vena cava
Liver
Left ventricle
Heart apex
Right ventricle
Right cr. Lobar
Pulmonary artery
Right cr. Lobar
Pulmonary vein
Trachea

230. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Sympathetic trunk
Dorsal
intercostal a.v.
Oesophagus
Thoracic
aorta
Vagus n.: dorsal &
ventral branches
Left principal
bronchus
Diaphragm
Phrenic n.
Mediastinum: over the
right accesssory lung
Right auricle Mediastiinum:over right
middle lung lobe
Left ventricle
Paraclonal a.v.
Right ventricle
Left auricle
Right cranial lung lobe
Internal
thoracic a.v.
Vago-
sympathetic
trunk
Middle cervical
ganglion
(sympathetic)
Subclavian a.
Cervicothoracic
ganglion

231. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thorax:
Right lateral view
LabelsFull screen
This radiograph is made with the animal
in lateral recumbency with its right side
down. Note that the diaphragm has a
smooth continuous curved shape and
that the diaphragmatic crura are parallel,
almost superimposed. Contrast this
appearance with that of the left lateral
radiograph.
Pot

232. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

233. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Thoracic
aorta
Pulmonary vessels to
caudal lobes of lungs
Left crus
Right crus
Caudal vena
cava
Liver
Left ventricle
Heart apexRight ventricle
Cr. Lobar
Pulmonary
artery
Cr. Lobar
Pulmonary
vein
Trachea

234. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Sympathetic trunk
Dorsal
intercostal a.v.
Oesophagus
Thoracic
aorta
Vagus n.: dorsal &
ventral branches
Left principal
bronchus
Diaphragm
Phrenic n.
Mediastinum: over the
right accesssory lung
Right auricle Mediastiinum:over right
middle lung lobe
Left ventricle
Paraclonal a.v.
Right ventricle
Left auricle
Right cranial lung lobe
Internal
thoracic a.v.
Vago-
sympathetic
trunk
Middle cervical
ganglion
(sympathetic)
Subclavian a.
Cervicothoracic
ganglion

235. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thorax:
VD view
LabelsFull screen
Pot
A ventrodorsal radiograph that
shows the normal position of
the heart, slightly to the left of
mid-line, and the caudal vena
cava to the right of mid-line.

236. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

237. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Cr Vena Cava
Rt. atrium
Rt. Ventricle
Ca. Vena cava
Pulmonary artery
Lt. atrium
Aorta
Lt. Ventricle
Caudoventral
mediastinum
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

238. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
L. auricle
R. auricle
Aorta
Brachiocephalic
trunk
L. Subclavian artery
Apex
R. ventricle
L. ventricle
L. atrium
Pulmonary trunk
Left
subclavian
artery
Brachiocephalic
trunk
Cranial
vena cava
Caudal
vena cava
Azygous vein
L. pulmonary
artery
R. pulmonary
artery
L. pulmonary
veins
R. pulmonary
veins

239. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Heart
Angiogram: LV injection, lateral view
Angiogram: RV injection, lateral view

240. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Angiogram:
LV injection, lateral
view
LabelsFull screen
The heart normally has a uniform soft tissue opacity in
radiographs and the internal structures (e.g. chambers,
valves) are not visible. These structures can be outlined
by injecting contrast medium which mixes with the blood.
In this instance, a catheter has been passed up the aorta
(where was it inserted into the dog?) until its tip is in the
left ventricle. Injection of contrast outlines the left
ventricle, aorta, coronary arteries, brachiocephalic trunk
and left subclavian artery. This appearance is normal.
(Ignore the catheter cranial to the heart; it is relevant for
the next radiograph.)

241. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

242. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Left subclavian a Thoracic aorta
Left crus of
diaphragm
Right crus of
diaphragm
Gas in pylorus
of stomach
Common
carotids
Brachiocephalic
trunk
R + L internal
thoracic
arteries
Left ventricle

243. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
L. auricle
R. auricle
Aorta
Brachiocephalic
trunk
L. Subclavian artery
Apex
R. ventricle
L. ventricle
L. atrium
Pulmonary trunk
Left
subclavian
artery
Brachiocephalic
trunk
Cranial
vena cava
Caudal
vena cava
Azygous vein
L. pulmonary
artery
R. pulmonary
artery
L. pulmonary
veins
R. pulmonary
veins

244. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Angiogram:
RV injection,
lateral view
LabelsFull screen
Pot
In this instance, a catheter has been passed down a
jugular vein. Injection of contrast outlines the right
atrium, right ventricle and pulmonary arteries. This
appearance is normal.
(The thin black line crossing the caudal part of the lungs
is an artefact that occurred because the film was
inadvertently folded before processing.)

245. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

246. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Left pulmonary
artery
Right pulmonary
artery
Pulmonary
arterial supply to
the right middle
lobe
Pulmonary
trunk
Cranial lobar
pulmonary
artery
Right ventricle

247. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
L. auricle
R. auricle
Aorta
Brachiocephalic
trunk
L. Subclavian artery
Apex
R. ventricle
L. ventricle
L. atrium
Pulmonary trunk
Left
subclavian
artery
Brachiocephalic
trunk
Cranial
vena cava
Caudal
vena cava
Azygous vein
L. pulmonary
artery
R. pulmonary
artery
L. pulmonary
veins
R. pulmonary
veins

248. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Lungs
Bronchogram: Lateral view
Pulmonary Vasculature: Bulldog, DV view
Pulmonary Vasculature: Close-up, Lateral view

249. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Bronchogram:
Lateral view
LabelsFull screen
Pot 1
Pot 2
In the days before flexible endoscopy, vets sometimes did
bronchography to examine the airways. In this radiograph a
small volume of barium sulphate suspension has been infused
into the trachea and the lung inflated to spread it along the
bronchial mucosa. It is amazing how clearly the bronchi are
seen isn’t it? Notice that they have straight or gently curved
walls and gently tapering lumen. This appearance is normal.

250. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

251. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Bronchi of caudal
lobes
Bronchus–
end on
Tracheal
bifurcation
Trachea
Right
principle
bronchus to
cranial lobe

252. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Cranial part of
cranial lobe of
left lung
Caudal part of cranial
lobe of left lung
Caudal lobe
of left lung
Caudal interlobular
fissure of left lung
Interlobular fissure
of cranial lobe of
left lung
Accute margin
Cardiac notch
Obtuse margin
Trachea
Right
ventricle of
heart
Left ventricle
of heart

253. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Trachea
Bifurcation of
the trachea
Primary bronchii
Right cranial lobes
Caudal lobes
Bronchioles
Left cranial lobe
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

254. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Pulmonary Vasculature:
Bulldog, DV view
LabelsFull screen
Pot
This radiograph shows the
right and left caudal lobar
arteries and veins
superimposed over the cranial
part of the abdomen. It is
useful to examine these
vessels in dogs or cats with
suspected cardiac failure.
Pulmonary congestion is often
visible as enlargement of the
veins relative to the arteries.
The dorsoventral view gives a
better depiction of these
vessels than a ventrodorsal.

255. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

256. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Heart
Left caudal
lobar vessels
Diaphragm
Right caudal
lobar vessels
Air in the fundus of
stomach

257. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Trachea
Bifurcation of
the trachea
Primary bronchii
Right cranial lobes
Caudal lobes
Bronchioles
Left cranial lobe
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

258. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Pulmonary Vasculature:
Close-up, Lateral view
This radiograph shows the right cranial
lobar artery and vein. They are roughly
parallel, similar in size and gradually
taper as they extend towards the
periphery of the lung.
LabelsFull screen
Pot 1
Pot 2

259. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

260. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Tracheal bifurcation
Right ventricle
Cr. Lobar
Pulmonary artery
Cr. Lobar Pulmonary
vein
Trachea
Cr. Lobar bronchus

261. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Cranial part of
cranial lobe of
left lung
Caudal part of cranial
lobe of left lung
Caudal lobe
of left lung
Caudal interlobular
fissure of left lung
Interlobular fissure
of cranial lobe of
left lung
Accute margin
Cardiac notch
Obtuse margin
Trachea
Right
ventricle of
heart
Left ventricle
of heart

262. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Trachea
Bifurcation of
the trachea
Primary bronchii
Right cranial lobes
Caudal lobes
Bronchioles
Left cranial lobe
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

263. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Ribs
Crusty Ribs: Lateral view

264. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Crusty Ribs:
Lateral view
LabelsFull screen
It is common to observe large irregular
exostosis at the costochondral junctions of
old dogs. This appearance is considered
an age-related change and should not be
confused with disease.
Pot

265. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

266. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Caudal vena
cava
Liver
Left ventricle
Heart apex
Right ventricle
Exotoses at
costochondral
junctions

267. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Sympathetic trunk
Dorsal
intercostal a.v.
Oesophagus
Thoracic
aorta
Vagus n.: dorsal &
ventral branches
Left principal
bronchus
Diaphragm
Phrenic n.
Mediastinum: over the
right accesssory lung
Right auricle Mediastiinum:over right
middle lung lobe
Left ventricle
Paraclonal a.v.
Right ventricle
Left auricle
Right cranial lung lobe
Internal
thoracic a.v.
Vago-
sympathetic
trunk
Middle cervical
ganglion
(sympathetic)
Subclavian a.
Cervicothoracic
ganglion

268. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Oesophagus
Oesophagram: lateral view

269. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Oesophagram:
lateral view
View in sequence
The oesophagus is not normally visible
radiographically, although it might be if it is dilated or
has abnormal contents. To make the oesophagus
visible and to assess its function, we perform contrast
radiography. This series of radiographs made at 1
second intervals shows a bolus of food/barium mixture
passing through the thoracic oesophagus, leaving a
slight mucosal coating behind. This is a normal
appearance.
Pot

270. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
LabelsFinish Sequence

271. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Oesophageal bolus Thoracic aorta
Superimposed caudal lobar branches of
pulmonary arteries & veins
Bronchiole
Finish Sequence
Caudal Vena Cava

272. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

273. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Oesophageal
bolusThoracic aorta
Caudal Vena CavaBronchiole

274. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

275. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Oesophageal
bolus
Caudal Vena Cava
Thoracic aorta

276. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels Finish Sequence

277. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Caudal Vena Cava
Superimposed caudal lobar branches of
pulmonary arteries & veins
Oesophagus
Finish Sequence
Thoracic aorta

278. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Sympathetic trunk
Dorsal
intercostal a.v.
Oesophagus
Thoracic
aorta
Vagus n.: dorsal &
ventral branches
Left principal
bronchus
Diaphragm
Phrenic n.
Mediastinum: over the
right accesssory lung
Right auricle Mediastiinum:over right
middle lung lobe
Left ventricle
Paraclonal a.v.
Right ventricle
Left auricle
Right cranial lung lobe
Internal
thoracic a.v.
Vago-
sympathetic
trunk
Middle cervical
ganglion
(sympathetic)
Subclavian a.
Cervicothoracic
ganglion

279. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Thymus
Thymus: DV view
Thymus: Lateral view

280. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thymus:
DV view
LabelsFull screen
A dorsoventral radiograph of a
3-month-old pup shows a broad
curved soft tissue structure on
the left cranial aspect of the
heart. This is the thymus,
which will shortly involute and
cease to be visible
radiographically.

281. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

282. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Rt. atrium
Rt. Ventricle
Lt. atrium
Lt. Ventricle
Thymus
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

283. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thymus:
Lateral view
LabelsFull screen
This radiograph of a 3-month-old pup shows a lack of
ossification of the distal part of the rib which is
therefore not visible radiographically. Notice how the
thymus is virtually invisible on a lateral view.
Pot

284. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Lung (left)
Diaphragm
Oesophagus
Thymus
Common
carotid a.
Heart
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

285. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

286. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Thoracic
aorta
Left crus
Right crus
Liver
Left ventricle
Heart apexRight ventricle
Trachea
Non-ossified
costochondral
junction

287. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Abdomen General Abdomen views
The Reproductive System
The Kidneys and Ureters
The Bladder and Urethra
The Gastrointestinal System
The Spleen
The Liver

288. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Gastrointestinal System
Caecum detail: VD view
Gastric Antrum: Left lateral view
Gastric Antrum: Right lateral view
Gastric Rugae: Lateral view
Pneumogastrogram: VD view
Pneumogastrogram: Lateral view

289. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Caecum detail:
VD view
Full ScreenLabels
This close up view of part of the
ventrodorsal abdominal radiograph
of the dog shows gas filling the
caecum, which lies just right of the
mid-line at the level of L3 to L5.
This is a normal appearance.

290. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

291. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Gas filled caecum
L3
L4
L5
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

292. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Gastric Antrum:
Right lateral view
Full ScreenLabels
This lateral radiograph of a large dog was made
with the dog lying in right recumbency. Gas is
visible in the gastric fundus, but the antrum and
body of the stomach are predominantly fluid-filled
and appear as a regular rounded structure in the
cranioventral part of the abdomen. This
appearance can be mistaken for a ball in the
stomach.
Pot 1
Pot 2

293. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Enlarged spleenDescending colon
Reflected
abdominal
muscles & skin
Greater
omentum
Left lateral lobe
of liver

294. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Caudal division of
cranial lobe of left
lung
Caudal lobe
of left lung
Longissimus
thoracic m
Iliocostalis m
Left kidney
Stomach;
fundus
Stomach; body
Left lateral lobeLeft medial
lobe
Diaphragm
Left
ventricle
Left auricle
Pericaridal
fat

295. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

296. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Right kidney
Gas filled colon
Small intestinesFluid filled gastirc
body and antrumLiver
Gas filled
gastric
fundus

297. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Gastric Antrum:
Left lateral view
Full ScreenLabels
By repositioning the dog into left recumbency, gas
can be redistributed in the stomach and now fills the
gastric antrum. The fluid that was in the antrum and
body has now moved into the fundus, so the
appearance of the stomach is now the opposite of
what it was in right lateral recumbency. The
presence of gas in the antrum makes gastric foreign
body unlikely.
Pot 2
Pot 1

298. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Descending
duodenum
Greater omentum

299. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Right kidney
Caudate lobe
of liver
Right lateral lobe
of liver
Caudal, middle & cranial
lobes of the right lung
Diaphragm
Quadrate
lobe
Right medial lobeLeft lateral lobe
Stomach; antrum

300. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

301. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Small intestines
Gas filled gastirc
body and antrum
Liver
Fluid filled
gastric
fundus

302. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Gastric Rugae:
Lateral view
Full Screen Labels
This close-up view of part of the lateral
abdominal radiograph of a dog shows
the appearance of the gastric rugae,
which in this instance are well outlined by
gas. They have fairly uniform thickness
and an undulating course. As the
stomach distends, gastric rugae are
stretched out and flattened and are less
visible radiographically.

303. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

304. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Gastric rugae
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

305. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Pneumogastrogram:
VD view
Full ScreenLabels
This ventrodorsal radiograph of a
dog with an air filled stomach shows
the relatively large rounded fundus
of the stomach, which lies to the left
of midline, and the more oblong
gastric body extending across the
mid-line to the right where the pyloric
canal connects the gastric antrum
with the duodenum. The duodenum
is the most lateral of the gas-filled
intestinal loops visible in this
radiograph.
Pot 1 Pot 2
Pot 3

306. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Right medial
lobe of liver
Left lateral lobe
Stomach;
antrum
Stomach; fundus
Left lobe of
pancreasDescending
duodenum
Right lobe of
pancreas
Cranial duodenal
flexure
Caudal duodenal
flexure
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

307. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Sternum
Left lateral lobe
Left medial lobe
Diaphragm
Quadrate
lobe
Xiphoid process
Right medial
lobe
Right
kidney
Caudal
vena cava
Stomach; fundus
Left kidney
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

308. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Stomach
Enlarged
spleen
Greater
omentum
Descending
duodenum

309. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

310. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Caudal lobar
branches of
pulmonary
vessels
superimposed on
the liver
Gas in gastric
fundus
Liver
Gas in duodenum
Gas in gastric
antrum

311. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Pneumogastrogram:
Lateral view
Full ScreenLabels
For this radiograph a large bore
gastric tube has been passed
and the stomach inflated to
more clearly demonstrate its
size, position and shape.
Pot 1
Pot 2

312. © Royal Veterinary College 2009Serratus
dorsalis pars
cranialis
Serratus dorsalis pars
caudalis
Perirenal fat
Cut edge of internal
abdominal oblique
Left lobe of pancreasStomach; fundus
External intercostal m

313. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Right lobe of
pancreas
Descending duodenum
Stomach;
antrum
Left lateral lobe
Serratus dorsalis pars
cranialis

314. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

315. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Large bore
gastric tube
Liver
Air filled gastric
body and fundus
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

316. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Kidneys and Ureters
Intra-venous Ureterogram (IVU): VD view
Nephrogram: VD view, DSA
Renal non-selective angiogram: VD view

317. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Intra-venous
Ureterogram (IVU):
VD view
Full Screen Labels
This ventrodorsal radiograph was made several
minutes after injection of contrast medium into a
peripheral vein. Circulation of the contrast through
the heart and lungs is followed by systemic
distribution to all organs, including the kidneys.
The kidneys filter contrast and excrete it into the
renal pelvis and ureters which are visible clearly in
this instance. This procedure is called an
intravenous urogram (IVU). Opacification of the
renal collecting system, pelvis and ureters is also
known as a pyelogram. Note that the urinary
bladder has been filled with air
(pneumocystogram) to help identify it and to
improve visualisation of the ureters as they pass
over the urinary bladder in this view. Each ureter in
this dog passes in a caudal direction and then
makes an approximately 180º turn before draining
into the bladder. This is a completely normal
appearance.
Pot 1
Pot 2
Pot 3

318. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Renal artery
Renal vein
Ureter
Arcuate aa
Cortex
Medulla
Renal sinus

319. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Renal artery
Ureter
Interlobar artery
Interlobular artery
Pelvis recess
Impression of renal crest

320. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Aorta
Vena cava
Oesophagus
Quadrate lobe of
liver
Left medial
lobe of liver
Left lateral
lobe of liver
Gall bladder
Right medial lobe
Right kidney
Renal a&v
Adrenal gland
Left kidney
Caudal vena
cava
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

321. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

322. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Renal pelvis
Ureter
Bladder
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

323. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Nephrogram:
VD view, DSA
Full Screen Labels
This radiograph was made in a similar
way to the renal non-selective
angiogram, but the technique of digital
subtraction has enabled other
abdominal structures not containing
contrast medium to be removed from
the image, leaving a particularly clear
depiction of the contrast within the
aorta and its various branches.
Contrast medium arriving in the
kidneys is quickly distributed evenly
through the cortex where it is filtered
by the glomerulus. Opacification of the
renal parenchyma is known as a
nephrogram.
Pot 1
Pot 2
Pot 3

324. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Renal artery
Renal vein
Ureter
Arcuate aa
Cortex
Medulla
Renal sinus

325. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Renal artery
Ureter
Interlobar artery
Interlobular artery
Pelvis recess
Impression of renal crest

326. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Aorta
Vena cava
Oesophagus
Quadrate lobe of
liver
Left medial
lobe of liver
Left lateral
lobe of liver
Gall bladder
Right medial lobe
Right kidney
Renal a&v
Adrenal gland
Left kidney
Caudal vena
cava
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

327. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

328. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Interlobar aa
Renal aa
External iliac a
Internal iliac a
Median sacral a
Celiac a
Cr. Mesenteric a
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

329. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Renal non-selective
angiogram:
VD view
Full Screen Labels
This radiograph was made
during injection of contrast
medium into the mid-abdominal
aorta via a catheter and shows
contrast predominantly filling the
renal arteries and the interlobar
arteries of the kidneys. In many
dogs, each kidney has two renal
arteries.
Pot 1
Pot 2
Pot 3

330. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Renal artery
Renal vein
Ureter
Arcuate aa
Cortex
Medulla
Renal sinus

331. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Renal artery
Ureter
Interlobar artery
Interlobular artery
Pelvis recess
Impression of renal crest

332. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Aorta
Vena cava
Oesophagus
Quadrate lobe of
liver
Left medial
lobe of liver
Left lateral
lobe of liver
Gall bladder
Right medial lobe
Right kidney
Renal a&v
Adrenal gland
Left kidney
Caudal vena
cava
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

333. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

334. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Interlobar aa
Renal aa
Deep circumflex a
External iliac a
Internal iliac a
Median sacral a
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

335. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Bladder and Urethra
Male Urethrogram: Lateral view
Bladder: Lateral view, Pelvic

336. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Male Urethrogram:
Lateral view
Full ScreenLabels
This radiograph was made during injection of contrast
medium into a urethral catheter and shows the contrast
within the penile and pelvic urethra, the bladder and a
small amount of contrast refluxing up one of the
ureters. Note the uniform calibre of the urethra as it
bends around the caudal aspect of the ischium before
becoming wider within the pelvis. An elongated gas
bubble is present in the caudal part of the pelvic
urethra and could be confused with a lesion.

337. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

338. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No LabelsBladder UreterPreprostatic
urethra
Slight dorsal dip
marks the
seminal colliclus
Isthmus
(narrowing of
lumen)
Penile
urethra
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

339. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Bladder:
Lateral view, Pelvic
Full ScreenLabels
This radiograph of a small breed female dog shows
contrast medium (and a large air bubble) in the
vagina and uterus. The oblique filling defect in the
uterus dorsal to the bladder represents the site of
the cervix. In this dog the urinary bladder has a very
wide neck, which is located within the pelvis. Dogs
(male or female) with this conformation often have
urinary incontinence.
Pot
Note: Male dog used for photo,
female in radiograph!

340. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Bladder
Rectum
Adductor m.
Symphyseal surface
of os coxae
Rectus abdominis m.
Lips of vulva
Sacrum
7
th
Lumbar vertebra
Spinal cord
Intervertebral disc
Anus
Urethra
Vestibule

341. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

342. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Uterine horns BladderCervix Urethra
Vagin
a
PubisVestibule
Bladder neck
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

343. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Reproductive System
Vaginogram: Lateral view, Oestrus
Uterus: Lateral view, Metoestrus
Prostate: Lateral view

344. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Vaginogram:
Lateral view, Oestrus
Full ScreenLabels
This radiograph was made by injection of
contrast medium into the vagina and urethra
of an entire female dog. Contrast opacifies
the urethra, bladder, vagina and the two
horns of the uterus, which are visible as
narrow coiled structures superimposed on
the craniodorsal aspect of the bladder. The
large diameter of the vagina and the open
cervix are compatible with oestrus.
Pot
Note: Male dog used for photo,
female in radiograph!

345. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Dorsomedian fold
continuing the cervix
Vestibule
Clitoris
External urethral orifice
Vagina
Bladder
Cervix
Right uterine horn
Broad ligament
Right ovary
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

346. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

347. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
L5
Uterine horns Bladder Cervix
Vaginal fornix
Urethra Vagin
a
VestibulePubis
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

348. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Uterus:
Lateral view, Metoestrus
Full ScreenLabels
In this lateral abdominal radiograph
the uterus can be faintly seen as a
curved elongated, faintly lumpy-
appearing structure superimposed
over the bladder. This appearance is
normal, although the uterus in many
dogs is too small to be seen
radiographically.
Pot
Note: Male dog used for photo,
female in radiograph!

349. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Dorsomedian fold
continuing the cervix
Vestibule
Clitoris
External urethral orifice
Vagina
Bladder
Cervix
Right uterine horn
Broad ligament
Right ovary
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

350. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

351. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
L5
Ventral abdominal wallBladder
Faeces in
descending
colon
Uterus
Left kidney
Small
intestines
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

352. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Prostate:
Lateral view
Full ScreenLabels
In this radiograph of a male dog a rounded soft tissue structure is visible just
caudal to the bladder and ventral to the faeces-filled colon at the pelvic inlet.
This is the prostate. It is often difficult to see the prostate because it is usually
within the pelvis, so is obscured by the surrounding bones. In entire male dogs
the prostate gradually enlarges with increasing age and moves cranially so
that it becomes visible cranial to the pelvic inlet, as in this instance. Note the
triangular lucency that occupies the angle formed by the ventral abdominal
wall, the ventral wall of the bladder and the cranioventral aspect of the
prostate; this is abdominal fat and it is the fact that it is less opaque than soft
tissues that enables visualisation of the prostate.
Pot 2
Pot 1

353. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Bladder
Deferent
duct
Pelvic
urethra
Prostate
gland Retractor
penis m.
Bulbospongiosus
m.
Body of penis
Ischiocavernosus m.
over left crus
Anus
Rectum

354. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Bladder
Deferent duct
(right)
Kidney (left)
Ureter (right)
Urethra

Bulbospongiosus
m.
Right crus
Retractor
penis m.
Testis (right)
Testicular
vessels
Dorsal a. and v.
of penis
Anus
Bulbus
glandis
Pars longa
glandis
Spermatic cord
Prepuce
Descending
colon

355. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

356. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Ilium
Hip joint
L5
Femoral
head
Prostate
Fat
between
bladder
neck &
abdominal
wall
Ventral abdominal wallBladder
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

357. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
General Abdomen views
Abdominal Aortogram: Lateral view
Abdomen: Lateral view
Abdomen: VD view
Pup Abdomen: Lateral view

358. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Abdominal Aortogram:
Lateral view
Full Screen
Labels
This lateral radiograph was made
immediately after injection of
positive contrast medium into the
left ventricle and shows
opacification of the abdominal aorta
and its major branches.
Pot 1
Pot 2
Pot 3
Muscle layers

359. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Enlarged spleenDescending colon
Reflected
abdominal
muscles & skin
Greater
omentum
Left lateral lobe
of liver

360. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Caudal division of cranial
lobe of left lungCaudal lobe
of left lung
Longissimus thoracic m
Iliocostalis m
Left kidney
Stomach; fundus
Stomach; body
Left lateral lobeLeft medial lobe
Diaphragm
Left ventricle
Left auricle
Pericaridal fat

361. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Serratus dorsalis
pars cranialis
Serratus dorsalis pars caudalis
Perirenal fat
Cut edge of internal
abdominal oblique
Left lobe of pancreasStomach; fundus
External intercostal m

362. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Internal abdominal oblique m
External abdominal oblique m
Transverse abdominal m
External abdominal oblique m
Internal abdominal oblique m

363. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

364. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Right kidney Left kidneyL4
Bladder
Small
intestines
Aorta
Celiac a
Cr. Mesenteric a
Renal aa
External iliac aa
Internal iliac aa
Deep femoral aa

365. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Abdomen:
Lateral
view
Full ScreenLabels
This is a typical lateral abdominal radiograph of a dog, in which the abdominal
viscera are visible but are difficult to discern because of superimposition and
because of the similar opacity of the organs and surrounding tissues. The liver is
present on the cranioventral aspect of the abdomen between the stomach, which is
gas-filled, and the diaphragm. In this instance the caudal port of the liver extends
several centimetres caudal to the last ribs and some would interpret this as
enlarged. Just caudal to the liver is an oblong soft tissue structure that
corresponds to the tail of the spleen. Dorsal to this there are numerous loops of
small intestine, some containing gas which makes them easier to see, and others
containing a small amount of fluid. Dorsal to the small intestinal loops and bladder
is the colon. This is recognisable because of its speckled content, which represents
faeces. The kidneys are relatively difficult to see in many dogs and this is no
exception. The left kidney is present in the mid-dorsal abdomen from the level of L2
to L4. The right kidney overlaps with the left and occupies the region from
approximately T13 to L2.
Pot 2
Pot 1
Pot 3
Muscle layers

366. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Enlarged spleenDescending colon
Reflected
abdominal
muscles & skin
Greater
omentum
Left lateral lobe
of liver

367. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Caudal division of
cranial lobe of left
lung
Caudal lobe
of left lung
Longissimus
thoracic m
Iliocostalis m
Left kidney
Stomach;
fundus
Stomach; body
Left lateral lobeLeft medial
lobe
Diaphragm
Left
ventricle
Left auricle
Pericaridal
fat

368. © Royal Veterinary College 2009Serratus
dorsalis pars
cranialis
Serratus dorsalis pars
caudalis
Perirenal fat
Cut edge of internal
abdominal oblique
Left lobe of pancreasStomach; fundus
External intercostal m

369. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Internal abdominal
oblique m
External
abdominal
oblique m
Transverse abdominal m
External
abdominal
oblique m
Internal abdominal
oblique m

370. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

371. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Gas in body of
stomach Right kidneyLeft kidneyL4
Faeces in
descending colon
BladderSmall
intestines
Tail
end of
spleen
Caudal
extremity of liver

372. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Abdomen:
VD view
Full Screen Labels
This is the corresponding ventrodorsal view to the
previous lateral. Again it is difficult to discern the
individual abdominal organs in this typical dog. The
left kidney is visible from approximately L1 to L3 with
the elongated curvilinear spleen lateral to it and
overlapping its caudal pole. The right kidney is
virtually invisible. In this dog most of the small
intestine appears to lie to the right of midline; this is
not abnormal. The stomach is gas-filled, as it was in
the lateral view, and has a rounded fundus to the left
of midline and a narrower, more elongated body that
crosses the midline towards the antrum, which lies on
the right. The gas-filled piece of small intestine seen
superimposed over the right 12
th
and 13
th
ribs is
probably the duodenum, although its connection to
the stomach is not visible. An incidental finding in this
dog is the unusual left rib at T13, which is shorter and
thicker than the other ribs. This represents transitional
anatomy, having some of the features of a normal rib
and some of the features of a normal lumbar
transverse process. Transitional thoracolumbar
vertebrae or lumbosacral vertebrae are commonly
seen in dogs but are usually of no clinical significance.
Pot 2
Pot 4Pot 3
Pot 1

373. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Aorta
Vena cava
Oesophagus
Quadrate lobe of
liver
Left medial
lobe of liver
Left lateral
lobe of liver
Gall bladder
Right medial lobe
Right kidney
Renal a&v
Adrenal gland
Left kidney
Caudal vena
cava
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

374. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Right medial
lobe of liver
Left lateral lobe
Stomach;
antrum
Stomach; fundus
Left lobe of
pancreasDescending
duodenum
Right lobe of
pancreas
Cranial duodenal
flexure
Caudal duodenal
flexure
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

375. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Sternum
Left lateral lobe
Left medial lobe
Diaphragm
Quadrate
lobe
Xiphoid process
Right medial
lobe
Right
kidney
Caudal
vena cava
Stomach; fundus
Left kidney
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

376. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Stomach
Enlarged
spleen
Greater
omentum
Descending
duodenum
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

377. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

378. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Gas within fundus of
stomach
Transitional left rib
of T13
Left kidney
Faeces within
descending colon
Vertebrae L5
Duodenum
Gas filled antrum of
stomach
Body of spleen
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

379. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Pup Abdomen:
Lateral view
Full ScreenLabels
This lateral abdominal radiograph of a very young puppy shows
open growth plates in the vertebrae, the pelvis and distal femurs.
The abdomen has a virtually featureless, uniform opacity except for
a few gas shadows in the stomach and parts of the intestine. Other
abdominal organs are invisible. This is a normal appearance that
occurs because in neonatal puppies and kittens there is very little
abdominal fat, and in the absence of fat there is no contrast
(difference) between the opacity of the different abdominal
structures which therefore merge into one uniform grey.

380. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

381. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Physes
Ilium Pubis
Liver
Ischium

382. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Spleen
Spleen: Lateral view

383. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Spleen:
Lateral view
Full ScreenLabels
A lateral abdominal radiograph shows the spleen having a more
elongated and shapely demarcated appearance than in the ‘
Abdomen: Lateral View’ radiograph. The appearance of the spleen
depends greatly on its position in the abdomen and as it is somewhat
mobile it can vary from dog to dog and even from minute to minute. It is
very easy to over-interpret the appearance of the spleen because of these
variations. Dorsal to the spleen in the mid-abdomen there are a few small
intestinal loops which are non-dilated and dorsal to that there is gas
outlining the large intestine and caecum. The bladder occupies the
caudoventral part of the abdomen and has the large intestine and rectum
draped over its dorsal aspect.
Pot

384. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Enlarged spleenDescending colon
Reflected
abdominal
muscles & skin
Greater
omentum
Left lateral lobe
of liver

385. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

386. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Ascending colon
Lumbar vertebrae 5
Faeces within
descending colon
Ventral extremity
of spleen
Non dilated
small intestine
Caecum Bladder

387. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Liver
Liver: Portogram

388. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Liver:
Portogram
Full ScreenLabels
This ventrodorsal radiograph is made
immediately following injection of contrast
medium into a mesenteric vein at laparotomy.
Contrast within the vein flows cranially into the
hepatic portal vein and into the intrahepatic
branches of the portal vein. This is a normal
study.
In this image, the blood vessels appear as
black structures, which is the opposite of what
you might have been expecting based on
experience of other angiograms. This is a digital
subtraction angiogram in which the other parts
of the body such as the bones and the other
abdominal organs do not contribute to the
image, and the contrast medium appears as
black on a uniform grey background. This
technique makes it possible to see clearly the
tiny portal branches extending out into the
periphery of the liver.

389. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

390. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Intrahepatic
portalveins
Hepatic Portal
vein
Splenic vein
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

391. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
The Spine
Cervical region
Thoracic region
Lumbar region
Sacral region
Coccygeal vertebrae
AtlasAxisCervical, thoracic & lumbar
The Vertebrae;

392. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
1
2
3
4
5
1= Dorsal Tubercle
2= Cranial articular fovea
3= Transverse process
4= Body
5= Dorsal arch
6= Arch
7= Caudal articular fovea
8= Odontoid process (fovea for dens)
9= Ventral tubercle
10= Lateral vertebral foramen
11= Transverse foramen
Cranial aspect
6
3
7
8
9
1
10
6
3
9
11
Lateral aspect
Caudal aspect
ATLAS

393. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
1= Transverse process
2= Body
3= Spinous process
4= Caudal articular process
5= Cranial articular process
6= Dens (Odontoid process)
7= Transverse canal
8= Body of axis
9= Arch
1
2
3
4
56
7
3
4
1
18
7
3
9
4
1
6
5
6
10
Cranial aspect
Lateral aspect
Caudal aspect
AXIS

394. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
1
1= Spinous process
2= Body
3= Transverse process
4= Vertebral foramen
5= Lamina
6= Cranial articular surface
7= Caudal articular surface
8= Mamillary process
9= Caudal costal fovea
10= Cranial costal fovea
11= Cranial articular process
12= Caudal articular process
2
3
4
5 1
6
32
1
7
6
2
3
1
5
7
8
9
2
10
11
1
6
2
3
2
4
1
6
9
2
1
8
6
11
12
4
2
3
1
8
4
2
12
1
12 8
32
Cranial Lateral Caudal
Cervical v.
Thoracic v.
Lumbar v.

395. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Cervical region
Yorkshire Terrier cervical spine: Lateral view, neutral position
Yorkshire Terrier cervical spine: Lateral view, flexed position
Puppy cervical spine: Lateral view
Cervical spine survey: Lateral view
Cervical myelogram: Lateral view

396. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Yorkshire Terrier cervical spine:
Lateral view, neutral position
In small and toy breeds of dogs the vertebral canal is relatively wider than in large
breeds. This lateral radiograph of a Yorkshire terrier shows the wide gap between
the vertebral bodies and the corresponding dorsal laminae, which are projected
dorsal to the articular facets. C1 looks tall and narrow compared with its
appearance in large breed dogs.
Full ScreenLabels
Pot

397. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Atlas
Axis
3
rd
Ce
4
th
Ce
5
th
Ce
1
2
3
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
5
6
7
8
1= Lateral vertebral foramen
2= Wing of atlas
3= Spinous processes
4= Transverse processes
5= Extended plate of
transverse process of Ce 6
6= Vertebral foramen
7= Cranial articular process
8= Caudal articular process

398. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

399. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Dorsal
tubercle of
atlas (C1)
Tympanic
bulla
Transvese process
(wings) of atlas
Spinous
process of
axis (C2)
Ventral
tubercle of
atlas
Dorsal &
ventral borders
of vertebral
canal
Cranial articular process
of C4
Caudal
articular
process of C3
Endotracheal tube
within trachea
Intervertebral
foramen between
C4 &C5
Intervertebral
disc space
between C4
&C5
Extended plate of
transverse process of
C6

400. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Yorkshire Terrier cervical spine:
Lateral view, flexed position
Another radiograph of the same
Yorkshire terrier made with the head
ventroflexed shows that flexion
occurs at the occipitoatlantal joint
(“yes” joint) but not at the
atlantoaxial joint (“no” joint). This
appearance is normal. In dogs
suspected of having atlantoaxial
subluxation, abnormal displacement
of C1 may occur when the neck is
manipulated, typically producing a
widened gap between C1 and C2 in
a ventroflexed lateral radiograph like
this.
Full Screen LabelsPot

401. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Atlas
Axis
3
rd
Ce
4
th
Ce
5
th
Ce
1
2
3
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
5
6
7
8
1= Lateral vertebral foramen
2= Wing of atlas
3= Spinous processes
4= Transverse processes
5= Extended plate of
transverse process of Ce 6
6= Vertebral foramen
7= Cranial articular process
8= Caudal articular process

402. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

403. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Dorsal
tubercle of
atlas (C1)
Tympanic
bullae
Transverse
process
(wings) of
atlas
Spinous
process of
axis (C2)
Endotracheal
tube within
trachea
Atlanto -
occipital
condyle
External
occiptal
protruberanc
e
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

404. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Puppy cervical spine:
Lateral view
Just as in the limb bones, open physes are normally visible in the vertebral bodies
in dogs less than 9 months old. Each vertebral body (except C1) has two physes.
Full ScreenLabels
Pot

405. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Atlas
Axis
3
rd
Ce
4
th
Ce
5
th
Ce
1
2
3
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
5
6
7
8
1= Lateral vertebral foramen
2= Wing of atlas
3= Spinous processes
4= Transverse processes
5= Extended plate of
transverse process of Ce 6
6= Vertebral foramen
7= Cranial articular process
8= Caudal articular process

406. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

407. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Atlas
(cervical
vertebrae
1)
Spinous
process of
axis (C2)
Dorsal &
ventral borders
of vertebral
canal
Endotracheal tube
within trachea
Intervertebral
disc space
between C4
&C5
Dorsal spinous
process of C7
Open physes
of C3

408. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Cervical spine survey:
Lateral view
This lateral radiograph of the cervical spine shows the normal features of the 7
cervical vertebrae. C2 (axis) is the easiest to recognise because of its large dorsal
spine. Immediately cranial to it is the spineless dorsal lamina of C1 (atlas). The
wings of the atlas are superimposed over the cranial aspect of the body of C2. The
cervical vertebrae are well aligned and the intervertebral spaces are regular in width.
C6 is recognisable because of the large bent transverse processes, which project
ventral to the vertebral body in a lateral radiograph.
Full ScreenLabels
Pot

409. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Atlas
Axis
3
rd
Ce
4
th
Ce
5
th
Ce
1
2
3
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
5
6
7
8
1= Lateral vertebral foramen
2= Wing of atlas
3= Spinous processes
4= Transverse processes
5= Extended plate of
transverse process of Ce 6
6= Vertebral foramen
7= Cranial articular process
8= Caudal articular process

410. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

411. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Dorsal
tubercle
Lateral
vertebral
foramen
Stylohyoid bone
Tympanic bulla
Occipital condyle
Atlas
(cervical
vertebrae
1)
Transvese process
(wings) of atlas
Spinous
process of
axis (C2)
Ventral
tubercle of
atlas
Dorsal &
ventral borders
of vertebral
canal
Cranial
articular
process of C4
Caudal
articular
process of C3
Transvese
process axis
(C2)
Cr. & Cd.
Transverse
processes Endotracheal tube within
trachea
Intervertebral
foramina
between C4
&C5
Intervertebral
disc space
between C4
&C5
Extended plate of
transverse process of
C6
Dorsal spinous
process of C7

412. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Cervical myelogram:
Lateral view
Injection of contrast medium into the subarachnoid space of the same dog as in the
cervical spine survey image outlines the spinal cord, which is now visible as a lucent
space between the two thin contrast lines. The ventral contrast line bends slightly
dorsal above the intervertebral spaces, most noticeable at C2-3 and C6-7; this
appearance is normal.
Full ScreenLabels
Pot

413. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Atlas
Axis
3
rd
Ce
4
th
Ce
5
th
Ce
1
2
3
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
5
6
7
8
1= Lateral vertebral foramen
2= Wing of atlas
3= Spinous processes
4= Transverse processes
5= Extended plate of
transverse process of Ce 6
6= Vertebral foramen
7= Cranial articular process
8= Caudal articular process

414. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

415. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Atlas
(cervical
vertebrae
1)
Transvese process
(wings) of atlas
Spinous
process of
axis (C2)
Dorsal &
ventral borders
of vertebral
canal
Transvese
process axis
(C2)
Endotracheal tube
within trachea
Intervertebral
disc space
between C4
&C5
Extended plate of
transverse process of
C6
Dorsal spinous
process of C7
Contrast media within
subarachnoid space

416. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thoracic region
Thoraco-lumbar myelogram: Lateral view, large dog
Thoraco-lumbar spondylosis: Lateral view

417. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thoraco-lumbar myelogram:
Lateral view, large dog
The thoracolumbar region (T11-L2) is a frequent site of disc prolapse in dogs. This
radiograph show the normal appearance of a thoracolumbar myelogram in a large
breed dog. The contrast lines are regular and gently curved, with no sign of
deviation over the intervertebral spaces. It is normal for the dorsal contrast line to be
thicker than the ventral. This radiograph is slightly oblique - as you can see from the
lack of superimposition of the ribs (ribs on one side projected dorsal to contralateral
ribs) - but this is not a major problem; in a perfect lateral both sets of ribs may be
superimposed over the myelogram, making it hard to see clearly. It is sometimes
easier to see the myelogram in a slightly oblique radiograph like this.
Full ScreenLabels
Pot

418. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Spinous process
Tubercle
Head
Caudal articular
process
AngleBody Vertebral
body
Neck

419. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

420. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Caudal articular
process
Cranial articular
process
Dorsal spinous
process
Thoracic
vertebrae 13
Transverse
process of L3
Dorsal & ventral
borders of vertebral
foramen
Intervertebral
foramina
Contrast medium within
the subarachnoid space

421. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thoraco-lumbar spondylosis:
Lateral view
In middle aged or old dogs (and cats), exostoses are frequently observed arising
from the ventral and lateral aspects of the vertebral bodies adjacent to the end-
plates. These exostoses can be quite large and pointed and extend ventral to the
intervertebral space, sometimes bridging the space with solid bone. This condition is
called spondylosis deformans. It is not a cause of clinical signs.
Full ScreenLabels

422. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

423. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Caudal articular
process
Cranial articular
process
Dorsal spinous
process
Thoracic
vertebrae 13
Exostoses Transverse
process of L3
Dorsal & ventral
borders of vertebral
foramen
Intervertebral
foramina

424. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Lumbar region
Lumbar spine: Lateral view
Lumbar myelogram: Lateral view
Lumbar epidurogram: Lateral view

425. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Lumbar spine:
Lateral view
This lateral radiograph of the lumbar spine shows the normal features of the 7
lumbar vertebrae, which are well aligned and the intervertebral spaces are
regular in width. L7 is often a bit shorter than the others, although that is not very
noticeable in this dog.
Full ScreenLabels
Pot

426. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Mamillary
process
Accessory
process
Spinous process
Vertebral body
Transverse process

427. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

428. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Caudal articular
process
Cranial articular
process
Dorsal spinous
process
1
st
Lumbar
vertebrae
Vertebral bodyTransverse
process of L4
Dorsal & ventral
borders of
vertebral
foramen
Wings of the
ilium
Sacrum
Intervertebral
foramina
L7

429. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Lumbar myelogram:
Lateral view
This lumbar myelogram shows the very regular, almost straight, contrast
lines that we see in large breed dogs. Note that the ventral contrast line
goes over each intervertebral space (i.e. over each disc) without any dorsal
deviation. Also note the gradually tapered thecal sac, which contains the
cauda equina. In this dog it terminates at the cranial aspect of the sacrum.
Full ScreenLabels
Pot

430. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Mamillary
process
Accessory
process
Spinous process
Vertebral body
Transverse process

431. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

432. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Caudal articular
process
Cranial articular
process
Dorsal spinous
process
1
st
Lumbar
vertebrae
Vertebral bodyTransverse
process of L4
Dorsal & ventral
borders of
vertebral
foramen
Contrast medium within
the subarachnoid space
Wings of the
ilium
Sacrum

433. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Lumbar epidurogram:
Lateral view
A myelogram is a radiograph made after contrast medium has been injected into the
subarachnoid space. To do this a needle is inserted through the dura, the thick outer layer of
the meninges. Sometimes it is difficult to place the needle accurately, and if the tip fails to
penetrate the dura there is the possibility that injected contrast will be deposited in the tissues
around the dura instead (i.e. in the epidural space). This lateral radiograph of the lumbar spine
shows epidural deposition of contrast medium. Compared to a myelogram, the contrast has
an uneven wavy appearance with focal accumulations at each of the intervertebral foramina
because epidural contrast ends to spread along the spinal nerves. An epidurogram is not as
satisfactory for diagnosis as a myelogram.
Full ScreenLabels
Pot

434. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Mamillary
process
Accessory
process
Spinous process
Vertebral body
Transverse process

435. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

436. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Caudal articular
process
Cranial articular
process
Dorsal spinous
process
1
st
Lumbar
vertebrae
Vertebral body
Transverse
process
Dorsal & ventral
borders of
vertebral
foramen
Contrast medium within
the epidural space
Intervertebral
foramina

437. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Sacral region
Thecal sac myelogram: VD view, normal appearance
Thecal sac myelogram: Lateral view, normal appearance
Lumbosacral joint: Lateral view

438. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thecal sac myelogram:
VD view,
normal appearance
This is a ventrodorsal radiograph of the
lumbosacral region of a dog. What surgical
procedure has been performed on this dog?
Full Screen Labels

439. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

440. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
1
st
caudal
vertebrae
Faeces in rectum
Hip joints
Body of ilium
Lumbar
vertebrae 7
Cranial ventral
iliac spine
Lumbosacral
joint
Hip prosthesis
Hip prosthesis
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

441. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Thecal sac myelogram:
Lateral view, normal appearance
In large breed dogs, the thecal sac is frequently wide in the lumbosacral region period. In this
instance it has a blunted termination well within the sacrum. This is a normal anatomical
variation.
Full ScreenLabels

442. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels

443. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
1
st
caudal
vertebrae
Body of ilium
Lumbar
vertebrae 7
Iliac crest Cranial dorsal
iliac spine
Dura mater & arachnoid mater:
the thecal sac.

444. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Lumbosacral joint:
Lateral view
This lateral radiograph shows the lumbosacral joint
in a large dog. Note that in a lateral radiograph the
lumbosacral joint and L7 must be viewed through
the wings of the ilium This is a common site of disc
disease. This dog has spondylosis at the
lumbosacral joint.
Full ScreenLabels

445. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

446. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Lumbar
vertebrae 7
Iliac crest
Cranial dorsal
iliac spine
Sacrum
End plates of L7 and sacrum

447. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Coccygeal vertebrae
“Screw-tail”: Lateral view
Tail: Lateral view

448. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
“Screw-tail”:
Lateral view
Congenital anomalies affecting the vertebrae are common in brachycephalic breeds such as
the bulldog and pug. This lateral radiograph shows a short, bent tail in an English bulldog.
This malformation is known as a screw tail.
Full ScreenLabels

449. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

450. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
Short, bent
screw tail
Body of ilium Hip joint
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

451. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Tail:
Lateral view
This lateral radiograph of the pelvis includes the
sacrum and first few caudal vertebrae. The remainder
of the tail is thin and hence overexposed in this
radiograph. The vertebral canal through the lumbar
vertebrae, sacrum and tail is fairly straight.
Full ScreenLabels

452. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Labels
© Royal Veterinary College 2009

453. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
No Labels
1
st
caudal
vertebrae
Faeces in rectum
Lesser ischiatic
notch
Ischiatic
tuberosity
Obturator
foramen
Pubis
Head of femur
Hip joints
Body of ilium
Lumbar
vertebrae 7
Cranial ventral
iliac spine
Iliac crest
Cranial dorsal
iliac spine
Caudal dorsal
iliac spine
Femur

454. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
What do I need to
know?
Pre-clinical students:
This is a reference resource for you to use to improve your gross anatomical
knowledge whilst becoming familiar with normal radiographic anatomy.
Each image is labelled in great detail; each detail is NOT ESSENTIAL knowledge.
This resource is designed as a comprehensible reference tool.
Clinical students:
This programme is designed to allow you to familiarise yourself with normal
radiographic anatomy whilst providing you with a chance to revise and integrate
your anatomical knowledge. Each radiograph is accompanied by informative
text and an image of the animal in position for that radiograph to help you
understand how the picture was taken. It is designed for you to use throughout
your IMR, EMS and revision.

455. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Useful resources
1.Useful background knowledge for pre-clinical students.
2.Clinical skills – Digital imaging skill sheets and videos.
BLE > Clinical skills centre > further resources

456. © Royal Veterinary College 2009
Credits
Created by:C Lamb, L White, C Trace, S Frean and D Kilroy
eMedia Unit
Royal Veterinary College
Royal College Street
London
UK
NW1 0TU
Last update9/12/09