Computer Tomography IN Birds

Bird-Vet-Melbourne will soon have access to Bird-Computed tomography (Bird CT Scan) as another diagnostic tool in avian medicine.  Bird-Vet-Computer-tomography (Bird-Vet CT scan) is becoming more affordable and accessible. With Avian CT Scans, superimposed tiny bird anatomical structures that are present in standard radiograph views can now be visualised, differentiated. Ct is especially useful to seed details of structures within the body cavity and head.

Bird-Computed tomography (Bird CT Scan) enables the avian vet to distinguishes between the many shades of grey seen on standard Bird Vet x-rays. With Avian CT Scans even fluid can be distinguished from soft tissue. Fluid build-up is a major problem in female birds with Avian female reproductive tract disease that we see at the Melbourne-Bird-Vet-Hospital in Burwood.

The use of contrast media in Bird-Computed tomography (Bird CT Scans) can further enhance the ability to see detail.

For routine Bird-Vet-CT imaging anaesthesia is usually required. For birds at Bird Vet Melbourne, we use isoflurane gas anaesthesia. During the bird CT scan, the avian patient must be left alone in the CT room during the procedure.

Intravenous contrast can be used in larger birds with a drip connected.  

A standing CT can be also done in birds that are weak and shocked, when anaesthesia may be risky; as they are often still.  Birds can be placed in appropriately sized boxes in a darkened room to decrease movement. Standing CTs are often okay for examining the lungs and coelomic cavity; even birds that move their head and neck during the CT usually do not move their body.

In birds, CT imaging is great for thoracic and coelomic detail.  Bird-Vet-Melbourne-CT is more useful than   ultrasound and  especially useful in providing information about the heart, air sacs, and lungs. With Melbourne-Avian-Vet -CT the entire body can be scanned, allowing bird-clinicians to gain a complete anatomic assessment of other organ systems.