Ultrasonographic features of the liver and associated structures in female water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)

The study was conducted to determine the normal features of the liver and associated structures as examined ultrasonographically in water buffaloes. Ultrasonographic examination of six crossbred female water buffaloes, 5-16 years old, was done from the 7(th)-12(th) intercostal spaces and the area behind the last rib of the right flank using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 3.5 MHz scanner. Postmortem examination was conducted to confirm the anatomical location of the liver and to examine for any gross abnormalities. Hepatic dimensions were obtained during ultrasonography and after slaughter. Liver samples were collected and processed for histological examination. The recommended acoustic window for ultrasonographic examination of the liver is the area occupied by the last four intercostal spaces, i.e., 9(th)- 12(th). Upon ultrasound examination, the liver showed uniform hypoechoic parenchyma evenly distributed throughout the entire organ. Vascular structures appeared as circular or irregularly rounded anechoic structures which were readily identified starting from 10(th)-12(th) intercostal spaces. Portal veins had hyperechoic walls while hepatic veins had hypoechoic walls. The gall bladder appeared as an anechoic structure with echogenic walls between the 11(th) and 12(th) intercostal spaces, adjacent to the hepatic parenchyma. Liver thickness obtained through in vivo ultrasonography was significantly different from those obtained through gross measurement. The above findings can be used as a reference for diagnosis of diseases and disorders of the liver and associated structures in water buffaloes.