Quantification of Doppler Indices, Contrast Ultrasound Enhancement Phases and Perfusion Parameters of Splenic Parenchyma in Healthy Dogs

Background: The spleen can be affected by a variety of vascular problems. Affected tissue neovascularization in these conditions can be effectively analysed using imaging modalities such as Doppler and contrast enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS). Methods: Nine healthy dogs were included in this clinical study comprising two breeds of Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Beagles and one breed each of Crossbred, Pug, and Pitbulls. Pulsed-wave Doppler indices and contrast-enhanced perfusion parameters of the splenic vasculature were obtained by performing spectral Doppler sonography and CEUS using a second-generation ultrasound contrast agent (Sonovue). Result: The mean ± SE value of splenic vein’s Doppler indices were 10.94±2.04 cm/s (PSV), 6.92±1.28 cm/s (EDV), 6.44±1.57 cm/s (MV), 0.35±0.05 (RI) and 0.75±0.17 (PI), while the indices of splenic artery were 31.21±3.12 cm/s (PSV), 8.95±1.63 cm/s (EDV), 13.98±1.95 cm/s (MV), 0.71±0.04 (RI), 1.75± 0.24 (PI). Arterial and venous phases were visible on a CEUS of the splenic parenchyma. The mean ± SE value of the contrast enhanced splenic perfusion parameters (measured in seconds) were as follows: arrival time = 7.00 ± 0.33; time to initial peak = 15.05 ± 0.46; time to final peak = 28.92±1.06; decline time = 97.89±2.82; washout time = 152.22± 9.10.