Pinnipedia

Pinnipeds are a widely distributed suborder of carnivorous, semiaquatic marine mammals that includes the extant families of Phocidae, Otariidae, and Odobenidae. Several species are commonly maintained in zoos and aquariums under professional care as well as in rehabilitation facilities after stranding. Diagnostic imaging is commonly utilized to assess pinniped health and abundant information exists on radiology, US, and cross-sectional imaging for several species. Enhancements in imaging technology and the accessibility of DR have been key to improving the speed, accuracy, and portability of radiography in pinnipeds. Pinnipeds can be desensitized to full-body US examinations, with voluntary positioning in ventral, dorsal, and lateral recumbency most frequently utilized. Pinniped dentition is diphyodont and heterodont. Ocular disease is commonly reported in pinnipeds and globe rupture secondary to severe corneal disease can occur.