Diagnostic Imaging

Radiology (X-Rays)

At Blue Cross Animal Hospital we use a  Digital x-ray machine to take images of your pet’s bones and internal organs. This way we can show you the radiographs on the computer in the exam room.
 

Radiographs are used to look for changes in bones and joints such as fractures and arthritis. They are used to examine the lungs and heart. We can also look for gastro-intestinal obstructions, evaluate the liver and kidney size as well as look for bladder stones. We recommend radiographs as part of our diagnostic work-up for many conditions.

Ultrasonography

Ultrasonography,or ultrasound, is a diagnostic imaging technique similar to radiography (X-rays) and is usually used in conjunction with radiography and other diagnostic measures. Where radiographs let us look at the outside of the organs, ultrasound lets us look at their internal structures.
Ultrasound can be used for a variety of purposes including examination of the animal’s heart, kidneys, liver, gallbladder, bladder etc. It can also be used to determine pregnancy and to monitor an ongoing pregnancy.

A ‘transducer’ (a small hand held tool) is applied to the surface of the body to which an ultrasound image is desired. Gel is used to help the transducer slide over the skin surface and create a more accurate visual image.

Sound waves are emitted from the transducer and directed into the body where they are bounced off the various organs to different degrees depending on the density of the tissues and amount of fluid present. The sounds are then fed back through the transducer and are relfected on a viewing monitor. Ultrasound is a painless procedure with no known side effects. It does not involve radiation.

Blue Cross Animal Hospital has a veterinarian on staff who can perform this diagnostic technique.

Pets can also be referred to specialist for MRI and CT scans.