Class Imaging in Companion Animals

The Course Unit of Imaging in Companion Animals provides fundamental knowledge of radiography, ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, applied to the diagnosis, monitoring and therapeutic planning of dogs, cats and other species. Integrated into clinical veterinary sciences, it links with propedeutics and medical-surgical practice, developing skills in technique selection, exam performance and image interpretation. Its relevance lies in supporting clinical diagnosis, disease staging and preparing professionals to integrate complementary exams appropriately and safely.

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Introduction to Veterinary Imaging: historical development and clinical relevance in companion animals. Physical and Technical Principles: radiography, ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging; fundamentals, indications, and limitations. Radiation Protection and Safety: radiation protection standards, best practices, and risk minimization for operators and animals. Imaging Acquisition Techniques: animal preparation, positioning, protocols, and image quality optimization. Image Interpretation: normal anatomy, identification of pathological changes in organ systems, and integration with clinical data. Preparation of Imaging Reports: principles, structure, and appropriate language to produce clear and accurate reports. Clinical Applications: diagnosis, staging, therapeutic monitoring, limitations of techniques, and integration with complementary exams.

The Course Unit of Clinical Imaging in Companion Animals employs innovative methodologies to support learning, including the study of clinical cases to develop critical thinking and theoretical-practical integration, lectures with real clinical cases in a hospital setting, simulation with models for safe training, collaborative group learning for joint image interpretation, digital and multimedia resources to reinforce knowledge, continuous formative assessment to monitor progress, and a flipped classroom approach, allowing class time to be devoted to practical exercises, case resolution, and guided discussion.

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