Radiology
Sometimes, it’s impossible to diagnose a pet with a physical examination alone because several illnesses and medical conditions that affect dogs and cats present themselves with very similar symptoms. To reach an accurate diagnosis of a pet’s illness, a veterinarian needs to take a look inside the animal to see exactly what’s going on. In the days before radiology, this meant a veterinarian would need to perform an invasive exploratory surgery.
Today, we’re able to use diagnostic imaging, also called radiology, which uses special tools to image a patient’s internal structures and achieve an accurate diagnosis – with no pain, no surgery, and no recovery time needed. Brookview Animal Hospital has access to robust diagnostic imaging capabilities with our in-house veterinary diagnostics department.
What Is Radiology?
Radiology is the study and practice of diagnostic imaging. Radiology uses tools like x-rays, digital x-rays, sonograms (ultrasound), echocardiograms, CT scans, MRIs, and more to produce a variety of different types of diagnostic images. Radiology is used in both mainstream and veterinary medicine.
How Veterinarians Use Radiology
Our veterinarian recommends radiology when we can’t reach a diagnosis with a physical examination and laboratory tests alone. Diagnostic imaging allows us to take a look inside patients to view the size, shape, and position of a pet’s organs. Additionally, we’re able to view their bones, detect tumors and other growths, and locate ingested foreign objects or intestinal blockages.
We use diagnostic imaging to diagnose a variety of health problems in pets, such as:
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Cranial cruciate ligament disease
- Bone fractures and breaks
- Bladder stones and other urinary tract problems
- Degenerative diseases
- Certain cardiovascular conditions
- Respiratory issuesons
If we’ve recommended digital x-rays for your pet, we always invite our clients to ask our veterinarian about their pet’s x-rays, results, and to explain our findings in as much detail as you would like.
The Role of Diagnostic Imaging in Wellness and Preventative Care
We might use diagnostic imaging for health screening. Diagnostic images can help our veterinarian detect health concerns before they become a problem. We might use x-rays to look for early signs of bone and joint disorders like arthritis or during a pet’s dental exam to reveal problems we can’t see with the naked eye.
Fast Results with Digital X-Rays at Brookview Animal Hospital
At Brookview Animal Hospital, we use the latest in x-ray technology with digital x-rays. They’re faster, safer, and more accurate than traditional x-rays. They use only a fraction of the radiation and instantly produce easily enhanced and shared digital images.
If your pet needs x-rays or has recently had x-rays taken, we welcome you to contact Brookview Animal Hospital in Parma to learn more about the process and your pet’s results.
