Study Compares Preoperative Imaging and Surgical Findings in Cats and Dogs With Gastrointestinal Signs

A new retrospective study has shed light on how well preoperative imaging aligns with intraoperative findings in small animals presenting with gastrointestinal (GI) disease. The research, which reviewed records from 95 cases, highlights both the strengths and limitations of common imaging modalities in veterinary practice.

Study Overview

The study analyzed medical records from a teaching hospital between 2021 and 2022. It included 35 cats and 60 dogs that underwent both preoperative imaging and laparotomy within a 48-hour window. Only patients with complete records were evaluated.

Researchers compared preoperative imaging results with surgical findings, categorizing them as either “agreement” or “no agreement.” Imaging modalities reviewed included plain radiography, ultrasonography, barium studies, CT, and endoscopy. Patient outcomes were also tracked.

Key Findings

• Overall agreement was observed in 88% of cases (84/95).

• Discrepancies occurred in 12% of cases (11/95), with nine false negatives and two misinterpretations.

• Imaging usage: ultrasonography (52%), plain radiography (42%), barium study (3%), CT (2%), endoscopy (1%).

• Diagnostic accuracy varied:

  • Plain radiography showed the highest sensitivity (100%) and perfect agreement with surgical findings (Cohen’s kappa = 1, P < 0.001).

  • Ultrasonography had lower sensitivity (81.6%) and poor agreement (Cohen’s kappa = 0).

  • Across all modalities, combined sensitivity was 90.3%.

• Outcomes: 82 animals were discharged, while 13 either died or were euthanized.

Clinical Relevance

The findings emphasize the importance of selecting the right diagnostic tools when evaluating small animals with GI signs. While ultrasonography remains widely used, this study found that plain radiography demonstrated significantly higher agreement with surgical findings.

By identifying potential gaps in preoperative imaging, the study provides veterinarians with evidence-based guidance for improving diagnostic accuracy and surgical planning.

Read the article here: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2025.1562792/abstract