Page 11 - Veterinary diagnostic imaging birds exotic pets wildlife

CHAPTER 1 III Avian Radiography and Radiographic Diagnosis 7

Figure 1-6 • A lighter film of the gunshot

wound shown in Figure 1-5 indicates that
there are no further soft tissue or feather
injuries.

• The bird’s head and torso should be covered with • The bird should not be recovered, and the radiog-
a medium-sized towel. rapher should not leave radiology until the radio-
• All escape routes from radiology should be closed graphs are deemed satisfactory and additional
off and secured before handling the bird. views have been made.
• If a bird does escape, containment should be
achieved fi rst, then capture. Figure 1-9 illustrates some of the precautions taken
• When recapturing an escaped bird, everything to ensure the safety of the bird and radiographers when
possible should be done to make the experience being imaged. Figure 1-10 shows how even a momen-
as nonstressful as possible, even if it means giving tary lapse in concentration can lead to escape by a
the bird some quiet time to settle down before determined bird. Figure 1-11 shows one of the hazards
reattempting the radiographic examination. that awaits the unwary radiographer. When handling
• If a bird is anesthetized and maintained on gas a large bird with powerful wings, it is best to remember
while being radiographed, it should be moni- that these wings, too, are potentially dangerous, espe-
tored closely and regularly. Ideally, anesthesia cially blows to the face (Figure 1-12). Taking detailed
should be one person’s priority. photographs of unconscious or barely conscious birds
• The radiographer should stay focused and get after radiography should be done only with the assis-
the job done as quickly as possible but not at the tance of an experienced handler (Figure 1-13).
expense of thoroughness and completeness. Text continued on p. 13.

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