Radiograph Advice Service

We’re proud to partner with veterinary professionals across Scotland to deliver exceptional care. If you have any questions about this service or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Maximising the Value of Our Radiograph Advice Service

To ensure the best possible support, here are some tips on providing helpful information and performing optimal radiographic views:

Case Details

We gather basic patient information (signalment) and review the clinical history from the medical records you provide. This helps us assess the timeline of any lameness or other issues.

• Specific Details: If possible, specify the affected limb. Additional details (e.g., areas of concern on the radiographs or patient/client-specific notes) can be included in the body of your email or within the patient’s medical record.

Image Files

To facilitate accurate interpretation:

• Preferred Formats: High-quality JPEG files are sufficient. We can also accept DICOM files, but their size may require a file transfer service like WeTransfer.
• Avoid Screen Photos: Photographs of screens can distort images and are unsuitable for detailed interpretation. In urgent situations, they can save time but should ideally be replaced with proper image files later.
• File Sharing Links: Services like Google Drive or iCloud often create permission issues. Please send the files directly as attachments to avoid delays.

Contact Details

Ensure we can reach you efficiently:

• Reply-Ready Email: Confirm the email address you provide accepts replies.
• Phone Contact: If a callback is needed, provide the best number and ensure colleagues familiar with the case are available if you’re not.

Recommended Imaging Views

Hindlimb Lameness

For hindlimb lameness without clear localization, we recommend the following radiographic views:

• Lateral lumbosacral spine/pelvis: Centre on L7.
• Ventrodorsal pelvis: Ideally with extended, parallel limbs. Patellae to ceiling. A “frog-leg” view is also beneficial, particularly for cats and juvenile dogs.
• Stifle joints: Mediolateral and caudocranial views for both stifles. Centre over the joint and expand collimation to include the tarsus.
• Tarsal joints and pes (foot): Mediolateral and plantarodorsal or dorsoplantar views of both tarsal joints.

Forelimb Lameness

For forelimb lameness without a clear source, we suggest:

• Shoulders: Neutral mediolateral views for both shoulders. Extend the neck and retract the contralateral limb for clarity.
• Elbows: Neutral mediolateral and craniocaudal views of both elbows. Flexed mediolateral views are also highly useful.
• Carpi and manus: Mediolateral and dorsopalmar views of both carpi, including the manus.

Important Note: Radiography can be less sensitive for diagnosing certain forelimb conditions. In some cases, direct referral for CT imaging may provide a faster and more cost-effective solution.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure a smooth process and provide the most accurate advice for your patients. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out!