How to feel confident you found the pathology each time you scan the small intestines in small animal practice

Are you striving to feel more confident that you have found pathology of the small intestines every time you do a scan? Let me help you out. You see, it's all about mastering a systematic approach, being careful with measurements, understanding the ins and outs of ultrasound, getting in plenty of practice, and, of course, welcoming valuable feedback. Let's dive into how we can polish up your skills in examining the small intestine with ultrasound.

Here’s a guide to help you confidently identify small intestine pathology during ultrasound scans.

Scan Systematically with a Castle Pattern

Navigating the long and winding route of the small intestines demands a structured approach. Utilising a castle pattern facilitates a methodical assessment, maximising the visualised area. This involves scanning in two planes, such as ventral-caudal-dorsal-caudal on both sides of the abdomen ensuring plenty of depth on the image to get a good overview of all the small intestines. This systematic method enhances the chances of detecting abnormalities.

Take Regular Measurements and Understand Ultrasound Limitations

Accurate measurements of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, coupled with a grasp of normal reference ranges, provides crucial insights during assessment. However, it's vital to recognise the limitations of ultrasound in the gastrointestinal tract. While fluid or ingesta may reveal the opposite wall, a gas pattern can obstruct visualisation, necessitating alternative scanning angles for comprehensive evaluation.

Practice on Multiple Patients

Proficiency in small intestine ultrasound comes with practice. Regular exposure to various cases enables practitioners to discern normal from abnormal, sharpening diagnostic skills. Each encounter enriches your understanding of subtle nuances, refining your ability to identify pathology with precision.

Seek Feedback for Continuous Improvement

Feedback is invaluable in honing diagnostic skills. Whether through follow-up surgeries or review by experienced colleagues, obtaining input on your imaging interpretations fosters growth. Embrace feedback as a catalyst for learning, leveraging both successes and challenges to enhance your diagnostic prowess.

Want more tips on perfecting your small intestine ultrasound skills? Well, I've got something exciting for you! Join our waitlist for an upcoming 5-day challenge scheduled for May 2024. It's your chance to supercharge your expertise in small intestine pathology detection. Click here to register your interest and stay updated on all the details.