Ultrasonographic normal measurements of the kidney in female Saanen goat

Abstract

The study material consisted of 30 clinically healthy female Saanen goats. Their ages were between 6 months- 8 years and with body score between 2-4. Ultrasound scanning was performed to measure the normal length, width, cortex and medulla of both kidneys. Real-time scanner (Pie Medical Easote, The Netherlands) equipped with switchable frequency (3.5-5) MHz curvilinear probe was used while the animals were non-sedated on the standing position. Liberal amounts of ultrasonic gel were applied prior to the scanning for exclusion of air. Longitudinal views of the kidneys were taken while the probe was held parallel to the vertebrae. Measurements of cortex and medulla were performed on the same image in which the length measurements were made. The length, width, cortex and medulla of the right kidney were found to be 7.0 ± 0.64 cm, 3.8 ± 0.49cm, 1.03 ± 0.31 cm and 1.75 ± 0.32 cm respectively. The length, width, cortex and medulla of the left kidney were found to be 6.90 ±.63 cm, 3.80±.84 cm, 1.00 ±.32 cm and 1.8±.38 cm respectively. No significant differences were found between the measurements of the right and left kidney. Key words: Ultrasound, kidney, Saanen goat, normal measurements