The purpose of this study is to determine whether and how lung ultrasound can be used in the diagnosis or monitoring of pulmonary hypertension in dogs. Lung ultrasound is a new and noninvasive imaging modality that can help identify different types of lung disease. Lung ultrasound is faster, less stressful, and less expensive than the other tests commonly used for this purpose (chest X-rays and other advanced imaging).
If you agree to have your animal participate in this study, the participation will occur during the current visit only (no follow-up required). For the purposes of the study, lung ultrasound, lung auscultation (listening with a stethoscope), and chest X-rays will be performed before your dog receives treatment for pulmonary hypertension (sildenafil), and again approximately 24 hours later during hospitalization.
To perform lung ultrasound, your dog will be gently restrained (either standing or lying down). Some of the hair on your dog’s chest will be wetted with alcohol (no hair will be shaved) and the veterinarian will hold an ultrasound transducer up to the side of his/her chest to obtain images of your dog’s lungs. The lung ultrasound examination lasts approximately 2 minutes. To perform chest X-rays, your dog will be gently restrained on its side and lying down while a technician takes the X-ray.
By participating in this study, several aspects of your dog’s medical care and treatment will be provided at no cost to you. This includes your dog’s echocardiogram (normally $295.00), both lung ultrasound examinations (normally $46.50 each), and one set of chest X-rays (normally $168.00). You will continue to be responsible for all other costs associated with the normal course of treatment (including bloodwork, other diagnostic imaging, hospitalization fees, and medication costs), the treatment of any complications that may arise, and unrelated medical conditions.