Diagnostic Imaging in Surgical Disease in Veterinary Practice

Diagnostic imaging is an indispensable component of veterinary surgical practice, enabling accurate localization, characterization, and assessment of surgical diseases before intervention. Conventional radiography, ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and fluoroscopy each provide unique diagnostic information depending on the organ system and clinical presentation. Imaging plays a critical role in evaluating orthopedic injuries, abdominal and thoracic disorders, soft tissue masses, urogenital diseases, neurological conditions, and traumatic injuries. Appropriate selection and interpretation of imaging modalities facilitate surgical planning, improve diagnostic accuracy, guide minimally invasive procedures, monitor postoperative healing, and support informed clinical decision-making across companion and large animal practice.