Diagnostic Evaluation
Bladder stones lead to mucosal irritation and can cause partial or complete urethral obstruction. Imaging confirms location and number and supports planning for diet dissolution or removal. Plain radiographs are often first because many stones are mineralized and visible. Ultrasound is helpful for confirming stones, especially with radiolucent types, and for evaluating bladder wall thickness.CT is best for surgical planning and detecting radiolucent calculi. Nuclear imaging and MRI are not routine.
The Gold Standard in Veterinary Imaging