Ultrasonographic investigations of bovine cardiac lesions

Abstract

In this paper the role of B mode real time diagnostic ultrasonography, both with and without Doppler and colour flow mapping facilities, in the investigation of bovine cardiac disease is discussed. Its uses are illustrated in a number (n = 18) of clinical cases. The examination technique is explained along with the equipment and the success of the simplistic approach of B mode echocardiography, which is compared with the application of Doppler vascular flow analysis and colour flow mapping. Conditions such as pericarditis, endocarditis and some congenital defects can be interrogated satisfactorily with B mode but smaller valvular lesions and complex congenital anomalies require Doppler techniques. In the future, the use of echocontrast agents may permit the investigation of these latter problems with simple equipment in the in vivo application of such a contrast agent is illustrated.