North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) Practice Test

When diagnosing a portosystemic shunt, ultrasound is typically the initial imaging test utilized due to its non-invasive nature, accessibility, and effectiveness in visualizing the liver and blood vessels. Abdominal ultrasound allows for the assessment of liver size, detection of shunts, and evaluation of blood flow patterns without the use of ionizing radiation or the need for anesthesia in most cases.

Ultrasound is particularly beneficial because it can also identify any concurrent liver disease, such as microvascular dysplasia or portosystemic shunts, that may not be evident on other imaging modalities. While X-rays can provide some information about liver size and general abdominal structures, they are not detailed enough for evaluating vascular anomalies. Both CT scans and MRIs offer excellent detail and can help in delineating the anatomy, but they are usually reserved for more complex cases or when additional information is required after initial ultrasound findings.