Imaging Strategy for the Spinal Patient

Patients presenting with clinical signs that localize to the cervical, thoracic or lumbosacral spine are challenging because the majority of disease involves the soft tissues within the osseous vertebrae. An additional challenge in the small size of the canine and feline spinal cord and nerves. Clinicians have various option, but most commonly radiography, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used. The benefits and limitations of each of these modalities will be discussed with case examples that have been evaluated with multiple modalities. The cost-benefit of each modality will also be discussed so an understanding of both clinical and economical decisions is gained, as the latter can impact both the owner and clinician managing these cases. Commonly encountered spinal diseases in canine and feline patients will be reviewed in light of diagnostic imaging results and clinical outcomes.