Evaluation of Pneumomammography in Dairy Cows

Pneumomammography is a demonstration by xrays of changes within the lactic ducts, lactic sinus, and cisterns of the udder by filling this system with air. Air was insufflated into the udder under a pressure from 5 to 120 mmHg. A pressure at 5, 20, or 40 mmHg was satisfactory for radiography. The radiograph at 5 mmHg pressure was suitable for the demonstration of the cisterns. Under pressure of 20 mmHg was demonstrated the lactic sinus. Application of pressure at 40 mmHg secured a good radiograph of the lactic ducts. There appeared to be no difference among the radiographs of the udder insufflated under pressure from 40 to 120 mmHg. The air insufflated into the udder (about 700 to 1, 000ml) was absorbed within 72 hours, and had no effect on clinical findings. Pneumomammography may be available as a guide for the examination of the udder in cows.