How well X-rays and ultrasound find bladder stones in dogs

Abstract

Urolithiasis is a common condition in dogs which necessitates rapid diagnosis due to the potential complications associated with the presence of uroliths. This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of radiographic and ultrasonographic imaging in the detection of urolithiasis in dogs, using cystotomy findings as the reference standard. The study also sought to identify the most appropriate imaging modality based on the results obtained. A total of 117 dogs of different breeds, ages, sexes, and body weights, all presenting with one or more clinical signs of urinary tract disease, were examined. Following a general clinical examination, all the affected animals underwent both radiographic and ultrasonographic imaging. The final diagnosis was established through surgical removal of uroliths from the urinary bladder. A total of 35.04% (41/117) of the dogs were confirmed to have urinary bladder uroliths. Radiography detected uroliths in 33 of 41 cases, whereas ultrasonography identified uroliths in 35 of 41 cases. The sensitivity of radiography and ultrasonography in detecting uroliths was 80.49% and 85.37%, respectively. Ultrasonography demonstrated superior efficacy and accuracy compared to radiography attributable to its higher diagnostic performance. Nevertheless, the combined use of both radiographic and ultrasonographic imaging is recommended for the diagnosis of canine urolithiasis, as their combined application enhances diagnostic sensitivity.