ULTRASONOGRAPHIC DETERMINATION OF RENAL VOLUME IN THE DOG

Ultrasonographic linear and area measurements were performed on both kidneys of 15 clinically healthy dogs. Renal volumes were calculated from linear and area data applying three prolate ellipsoid models. Ultrasonographic volumes were then compared using linear regression analysis with kidney volumes measured in vitro by water displacement. In vivo ultrasonographic volumes had a statistically significant relationship with the in vitro volume. The highest correlation was provided by the single plane area method. There was also a correlation between body weight and ultrasonographically detected renal volume, suggesting that ultrasound imaging may be a useful method for assessment of renal volume changes in dogs with renal disease.