[Diagnostic Imaging during pregnancy of the dog].

Abstract

Diagnostic imaging represents an important part during modern pregnancy management of the dog. Ultrasound has become the modality of choice for an early pregnancy diagnosis, enabling a verification as early as 17-20 days after LH surge. Furthermore an evaluation of fetal viability and development is possible as well as the depiction of malformations and an early assessment of fetal stress. Doppler imaging may also be of supporting value in this context . Using fetal maturity as well as measurements of fetal and extrafetal structures, a calculation of the gestational age and therefore the time of parturition is achievable. Radiographs of the caudal abdomen enable pregnancy diagnosis from the 43^rd day after LH surge onward. In addition, an assessment of fetal size as well as litter size is possible. Both modalities allow for complementary statements concerning possible labor complications and possess supporting value concerning the decision of necessary obstetric intervention and further management in patients with dystocia.