This highly interactive and practical one-day course will focus on how to get the most out of ultrasound machines, and how to image the major abdominal organs and the heart.  Presentations on each body system will consider imaging techniques, normal findings and a brief overview of common pathological changes.  These are followed by practical scanning sessions supported by experienced tutors.  Delegates will have the chance to use a range of ultrasound machines and get plenty of opportunity to practice their technique on live dogs.

Course Description

Topics to be covered

• Setting up an ultrasound machine to optimise the image in a range of situations
• Obtaining diagnostic images of the major abdominal organs (liver, spleen, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, kidneys, bladder)
• Performing a basic echocardiographic examination

Learning Objectives 

• The basic principles of ultrasonography and how to apply these to patient preparation and ultrasound machine use
• Manipulation of ultrasound machine settings to optimise image quality during abdominal ultrasound examinations and echocardiography
• Standard imaging views of the major abdominal organs, including landmarks and normal appearance
• Basic echocardiographic views and an appreciation of the heart chambers and valves evaluated in each of these views

Required delegate attributes or who this course is suitable for

This course is designed for veterinary surgeons who are new to or have undergone limited training in ultrasonography.   It will provide invaluable experience for those who are intending to or are beginning to use this technique, and those wanting to gain further experience and refine their technique. The course would also be of value to those veterinary surgeons undertaking further professional qualifications in small animal medicine or veterinary diagnostic imaging.