Why does my pet need an ultrasound?
Ultrasound is Ideal for:
-
Assessment of internal organs of the abdomen including liver, spleen, kidneys, urinary tract and gastrointestinal tract
-
Thoracic evaluation for pulmonary or mediastinal disease
-
Evaluation of heart structure and function (Echocardiogram)
-
Musculoskeletal system
-
Thyroid gland evaluation
-
Minimally invasive fine-needle aspirate or biopsies
-
Thoracocentesis, abdominocentesis and sampling of other abnormal fluid collections.
About Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a safe, painless imaging procedure that uses high frequency sound waves to generate images of soft tissues, organs, blood flow, and other anatomy. It is noninvasive and does not involve the use of ionizing radiation. Ultrasound can be used to diagnose illness, characterize anatomy, and guide the direction of biopsy or other diagnostic sampling. All of our ultrasound examinations are thorough, complete body cavity examinations and are performed by a board-certified radiologist. Most exams can be performed without the need for any sedation. However, light sedation can be helpful with very nervous or anxious pets. Out-patient appointments are available.
How is the Ultrasound Performed?
Often pets require no sedation and lay quietly for the procedure.
Especially nervous, anxious or wiggly patients may benefit from light sedation to enable a thorough examination. Sedation or brief anesthesia is usually employed if a biopsy or needle aspirate procedure is performed.
Once you arrive for your appointment, we will clip your pet’s fur and apply ultrasound gel. Your pet will be placed on our ultrasound table while the radiologist performs the ultrasound.
The radiologist will review your pet's exam findings as well as any follow up recommendations with you at the time of the study. Results will be provided to your veterinarian in the form of a written report. Your veterinarian will also be provided with access to the images for review.