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A repeatable CT protocol for quantifying caudal vena cava growth in medium and large breed dogs
Hannah C Reeves1, Stewart D Ryan1, Simon M Firestone2
1Translational Research and Animal Clinical Trial Study Group (TRACTS), Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia.
Summary
This study developed a repeatable protocol to measure the caudal vena cava (CVC) in dogs, creating growth curves to detect abnormal development. The thoracic CVC segment provided the most reliable measurements for canine growth assessment.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Comparative Anatomy
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Developmental malformations in dogs can lead to abnormal growth and disease.
- Inferior vena cava measurements in humans aid in detecting growth abnormalities.
- Standardized methods for assessing canine vascular development are lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a repeatable protocol for measuring the caudal vena cava (CVC) in dogs.
- To generate CVC growth curves for medium and large-breed dogs.
- To establish reference data for identifying abnormal canine growth and vascular anomalies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective, multicenter, analytical, cross-sectional study.
- Utilized contrast-enhanced CT DICOM images from 438 normal dogs (1-18 months).
- Developed a measurement protocol, analyzing CVC circumference in four anatomical regions.
Main Results:
- The thoracic CVC segment yielded the most repeatable measurements.
- CVC thoracic circumference ranged from 2.5 to 4.9 cm in dogs aged 1-18 months.
- Medium and large breeds showed similar CVC growth trajectories, with medium breeds reaching maturity slightly faster.
Conclusions:
- A standardized protocol for CVC circumference measurement using contrast-enhanced CT was established.
- The thoracic CVC measurement is the most repeatable and reliable for assessing canine development.
- This method can be adapted for other vessels to predict growth and generate reference data for veterinary patients.
