Bsava Of Rabbit Imaging Surgery And Dentistry Bsava British Small Animal Veterinary Association BSAVA Manual of Rabbit Imaging Surgery and Dentistry A Comprehensive Guide for Veterinarians Preface The rabbit once considered an exotic pet has become increasingly popular as a companion animal As their numbers rise so does the demand for specialized veterinary care This manual aims to provide veterinarians with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide optimal care for rabbits focusing on the crucial areas of imaging surgery and dentistry I Imaging 11 Radiography 111 Positioning and Technique General Anesthesia Essential for proper positioning and minimal movement artifact Standard Views Dorsoventral ventrodorsal lateral oblique and skull views adapted for rabbit anatomy Specific Views Cervical thoracic lumbar and pelvic views for targeted assessment Technical Considerations kVp and mAs adjustment for optimal bone and soft tissue contrast Image Quality Sharpness contrast and minimal artifacts are crucial for accurate interpretation 112 Interpreting Radiographs Normal Anatomy Thorough knowledge of rabbit skeletal anatomy is essential Pathological Changes Identifying fractures luxations masses and other abnormalities Dental Disease Recognizing root elongation malocclusion and dental abscesses Gastrointestinal Disease Assessing gas distension foreign bodies and intestinal stasis Urinary Tract Disease Identifying calculi bladder distention and other abnormalities 12 Ultrasonography 121 Applications in Rabbit Medicine Gastrointestinal Tract Assessing motility foreign bodies and masses 2 Abdominal Organs Evaluating liver spleen kidneys and urinary bladder Reproductive System Monitoring pregnancy and identifying abnormalities Cardiovascular System Assessing cardiac function and identifying valvular disease 122 Technique and Interpretation Probe Selection Highfrequency probes for optimal resolution of small structures Scanning Technique Proper patient positioning and probe manipulation Image Interpretation Understanding normal rabbit anatomy and identifying abnormalities 13 Other Imaging Modalities Computed Tomography CT Providing detailed 3D images for complex fracture analysis tumor staging and dental evaluation Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI Offering excellent soft tissue contrast for diagnosing spinal cord injuries brain tumors and other neurological conditions Endoscopy Allowing visual examination of internal organs and cavities for diagnosis and treatment II Surgery 21 Surgical Anesthesia and Monitoring Anesthetic Protocols Tailoring anesthesia to the individual rabbit based on age health status and procedure Monitoring Parameters Heart rate respiratory rate oxygen saturation and body temperature Pain Management Effective analgesia is crucial for postoperative recovery 22 Common Surgical Procedures Ovariohysterectomy and Castration Sterilization procedures to prevent unwanted breeding Fracture Repair Stabilizing bone fractures with internal or external fixation Mass Removal Surgical excision of tumors and other abnormal growths Gastrointestinal Surgery Addressing foreign bodies intestinal obstruction and other gastrointestinal disorders Dental Surgery Addressing malocclusion dental abscesses and other dental problems 23 Surgical Techniques and Considerations Aseptic Technique Maintaining sterile conditions to minimize the risk of infection Surgical Instruments Specialized instruments designed for rabbit surgery Suturing and Wound Closure Utilizing appropriate suture materials and techniques 3 Postoperative Care Providing pain management antibiotics and monitoring for complications III Dentistry 31 Understanding Rabbit Dental Anatomy Dental Formula Rabbits have continuously growing incisors and cheek teeth Malocclusion Abnormal alignment of teeth leading to chewing difficulties and pain Dental Abscesses Infections affecting the teeth and surrounding tissues Dental Disease Common in rabbits leading to weight loss anorexia and behavioral changes 32 Clinical Examination and Diagnostics Oral Examination Inspecting the teeth gums and oral cavity Radiography Essential for identifying dental abnormalities not visible during oral examination Dental Charts Documenting dental findings and treatment plans 33 Dental Procedures Dental Trimming Regularly trimming overgrown incisors Tooth Extraction Removing damaged or diseased teeth Dental Bonding Restoring damaged tooth surfaces Root Canal Therapy Treating dental infections within the tooth root IV Conclusion This manual serves as a comprehensive resource for veterinarians seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in rabbit imaging surgery and dentistry By understanding these core principles veterinarians can provide optimal care for their rabbit patients and improve their overall health and wellbeing Resources BSAVA website httpswwwbsavacom Rabbit Welfare Association Fund httpswwwrabbitwelfarecouk House Rabbit Society httpswwwrabbitorg Disclaimer This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice It is important to consult with a qualified veterinarian for any health concerns 4