Radiology of thoracic trauma in the dog and cat

Radiography is an important modality for patients with thoracic trauma because it enables rapid initial assessment of most thoracic structures, is widely available, and can be used repeatedly to monitor changes during case management. Thoracic radiography is indicated in all animals involved in a road traffic accident. This article describes the radiographic signs that might be seen following thoracic trauma and highlights those lesions that might require further investigation using ultrasonography or computed tomography.