Thoracic Radiographs provide a general assessment of cardiac size and shape, but more importantly allow for evaluation of the lungs. The echocardiogram has widely replaced radiographs for evaluation of heart size, shape and function. However, radiographs are still the primary way to evaluate the lungs, as the air within the lungs will interfere with the ultrasound, but not hamper radiography
Chest radiographs may be taken to determine if an animal is in congestive heart failure (i.e. if there is fluid accumulating in or around the lungs secondary to poor cardiac function).
