When evaluating for lung metastasis in a dog, what radiographic views are preferred?

The preferred radiographic views for evaluating lung metastasis in a dog typically include the right lateral (RLat), left lateral (LLat), and either the dorsoventral (DV) or ventrodorsal (VD) view. This combination allows for a comprehensive assessment of the lung fields and helps to ensure that any potential metastatic lesions can be visualized effectively.

The lateral views (RLat and LLat) provide valuable information about the size, shape, and position of any masses present in the thoracic cavity. Furthermore, the DV or VD view helps to give a broader perspective on the pulmonary structures and can reveal subtle changes or lesions that may not be as evident in lateral views alone. This multifaceted approach increases the sensitivity of detecting lung metastasis.

Using only a combination of lateral or DV and VD views may not provide the same level of information, as each view contributes uniquely to the overall understanding of lung pathology. Consequently, selecting the combination of lateral views alongside one of the ventral-dorsal options will yield the most thorough evaluation for metastasis in the lungs of dogs.