Ultrasound Referral
Seeing under the skin–that’s what’s possible with ultrasound technology. Ultrasound is a powerful diagnostic tool that creates a real-time internal image of an animal’s body, giving us important information about the circulatory, skeletal and gastrointestinal systems.
When used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools like X-rays ultrasounds can help identify a disease, may show intestinal blockages, soft tissue damage, and other internal injuries. Because ultrasounds don’t require radiation, they’re also used to monitor pregnancies and fetal health in breeding pets from approximately 28 days after mating.
Ultrasound works by broadcasting high-frequency sound waves that reflect off your pet’s internal structures. A small probe held against the skin collects the returning signals to create an image of the internal body, most commonly used to examine abdominal organs like the stomach, kidneys, liver, spleen, and gallbladder. An ultrasound of the heart, provides precise information about heart valves, blood flow, chamber size, and contractions. Completely painless and non-invasive, ultrasounds usually require some sedation because the patient must remain completely still.
To schedule a consultation or to learn more about our ultrasound services, call us at (515)-986-5738.
