Ultrasonography

Our clinic is fully equipped with an ultrasound scanner to evaluate certain conditions. Our veterinarians will discuss your pet’s case and determine if your pet requires an ultrasound examination. An ultrasound scan is a very important tool to help us diagnose conditions involving soft tissues, such as those found in the abdomen, or the heart.

What is an ultrasound scan?

Ultrasound scanning is a non-invasive procedure that uses high frequency sound waves (inaudible to humans) to produce images of structures within the body. When sound waves are directed into the body, some are absorbed by body tissues and others bounce back. The sound waves that bounce back are measured by the ultrasound machine and are transformed into an image on a screen. The images can be printed or recorded. Extensive training is required in order to correctly use this equipment and interpret these images.

Ultrasound scans are most useful for looking at soft or fluid-filled organs; like the liver, kidney, bladder and heart. It is less effective for examining bones or air-filled organs like the lungs.

What happens to my pet when it is booked in for an ultrasound?

Most of our patients are admitted into hospital for the day to have the ultrasound done. We ask that you bring your pet in fasted from the night before, as they may need to be sedated to allow us to do the best scan possible.

The area to be scanned will be shaved. No pain is felt during an ultrasound exam, however, pressure from the probe may cause a bit of discomfort. Sedatives may be necessary for those animals that won’t stay still or are uncomfortable.

For more complicated cases, specialists may also be booked at our clinic to perform the scan and involves the same procedure, however they are able to more effectively visualise conditions and diagnose unusual diseases. We will work together with the specialists to form the best treatment plan for your pet.

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