Ultrasonographic visualization of the liver in sites recommended for blind percutaneous liver biopsy in horses

Abstract

On the basis of the results of this study, the practice of blind percutaneous liver biopsy in horses is not recommended because of the risk of serious complications.

Ultrasonographically visible hepatic location in clinically normal horses

“…In addition, the liver cannot be palpated per rectum or via transabdominal palpation. As such, hepatic ultrasound has become a key tool in the investigation of hepatic disorders in horses . Ultrasound is used to evaluate hepatic echogenicity, for the presence of masses and to assess liver size .…”

“…As such, hepatic ultrasound has become a key tool in the investigation of hepatic disorders in horses . Ultrasound is used to evaluate hepatic echogenicity, for the presence of masses and to assess liver size . Although the sensitivity of ultrasound for detecting hepatic disease is low (26%), the specificity and positive predictive value are relatively high (86% and 85%, respectively), suggesting that when hepatic abnormalities are present ultrasonographically, they correlate to organ dysfunction .…”