Radiographs (x-rays) are one of the most important diagnostic tools in veterinary medicine. They allow us to view the shape, size and location of organs inside your pet’s body. Radiographs are extremely helpful for diagnosing and monitoring many medical and surgical conditions. An x-ray can detect a fractured bone, tumor, heart problem and locate an obstruction or foreign body in your pet’s stomach or intestine. X-rays and Ultrasound are often utilized together for an even more accurate diagnosis.
Ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce a real-time moving image of your pet’s internal organs. Ultrasound is painless and does not require anesthesia or sedation in most cases. This test is typically done after blood tests, x-rays, or a physical examination indicates a possible problem.
Ultrasound allows us to see things that cannot be visualized with radiographs. For example, a radiograph of the abdomen may show enlargement of a liver but does not tell us why the liver is enlarged. An ultrasound is a complimentary test that allows us to see the structure of the liver in greater detail and identify specific lesions or masses. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart, and an important diagnostic test in assessing animals with heart disease and developing a treatment plan.
Ultrasound allows us to evaluate internal organs without surgery. Using an ultrasound image as a guide, biopsies or samples of fluid can often be obtained without surgery allowing your pet to go home the same day.
Long Branch Animal Hospital has the capability to perform ultrasonography, ultrasound guided procedures and echocardiograms.
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