Ultrasound imaging instruction for veterinary students at Colorado State University

Abstract

Didactic ultrasonography instruction to the veterinary students begins with the physical principles of sonography, machine selection, and operating controls. Subsequently, image artifacts and normal sonograms of the heart and abdominal organs are presented. Sonograms of pregnancy and abnormal sonograms of common diseases are discussed. In the final-year practicum course, small groups of students (2–4) spend a week in the echocardiography lab and the soft-tissue imaging lab. Here, students acquire hands-on sonography skills and become proficient in sonography of small animals and horses. An Internet-based interactive instruction module on the equine limb was developed to enable veterinary students to better learn ultrasonography of tendons/ligaments of the metacarpus. Interactivity was achieved by creating clickable zones on the tendons and ligaments. Students are challenged to apply the knowledge gained studying normal ultrasound anatomy to clinical patients affected with tendon/ligament injuries. Students are asked to identify (by clicking on) the location of the sonographic lesions. The program provides immediate feedback on their ability to recognize the site of the injury. In addition, having the program web-based allows students to review the instructional material on a time schedule that best fits their needs and from remote locations.