B‐Mode Ultrasonographic Evaluation and Reference Dimensions of the Liver and Spleen in Healthy Lactating Saanen Goats

TL;DR

This study provides reference ultrasonographic measurements for the liver and spleen in healthy lactating Saanen goats.

Contribution

The paper introduces new reference ultrasonographic parameters for liver and spleen in Saanen goats.

Findings

The spleen was visualized with a hyperechoic capsule and splenic vein averaging 3.3 ± 0.9 mm.

The liver showed hypoechoic parenchyma with portal and caudal vena cava diameters of 16.5 ± 2.6 mm and 14.1 ± 3.4 mm.

The gallbladder had anechoic content in 73.5% of the goats.

Abstract

This study aimed to establish reference ultrasonographic parameters for the liver and spleen in 34 healthy Saanen goats. The spleen was visualized between the 12th and 8th intercostal spaces (ICS), with homogeneous parenchyma and a hyperechoic capsule and splenic vein with a mean diameter of 3.3 ± 0.9 mm. The liver was observed between the 12th and 6th ICS, showing a hypoechoic, homogeneous parenchyma. The portal vein and caudal vena had average diameters of 16.5 ± 2.6 and 14.1 ± 3.4 mm, respectively. The gallbladder exhibited variable shapes with anechoic content in 73.5% (25/34) of the animals.

Figures