Ultrasounds & Xrays
Veterinary diagnostics refer to both laboratory tests and imaging capabilities that assist veterinarians in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of sick and injured pets. At Akeso Veterinary Clinic, we’re proud to have access to advanced diagnostic imaging capabilities, including both x-ray and ultrasound technology, available right here in our office.
Diagnostic Imaging at Akeso Veterinary Clinic
We evaluate our patients and achieve accurate diagnoses using both x-ray and ultrasound imaging.
What Is an X-Ray?
The term “x-ray” refers to an image of a patient’s internal structures that is produced using x-ray radiation. Traditionally, these images are called radiographs.
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound (also called a sonogram) also produces internal images of a patient. Ultrasounds, however, differ in that they use extremely high-pitched sound waves to produce images in real-time. So, if an x-ray is like a snapshot, an ultrasound is more like a movie.
How Do Veterinarians Use Diagnostic Imaging?
Diagnostic imaging is most commonly used for diagnosing and treating a pet that is ill or injured. However, diagnostic images can be helpful in a wide variety of situations, such as:
- Assessing the extent of an injury
- Diagnosing an illness
- Aiding in veterinary surgery
- Locating and removing an ingested foreign object
- Monitoring a patient's pregnancy
- Assessing a tumor or other growth
- Evaluating the size, shape, and placement of a patient's organs
- Detecting and diagnosing bone and joint diseases
- Detecting and diagnosing genetic or developmental abnormalities
What to Expect If Your Pet Needs an X-Ray or Ultrasound
Both types of diagnostic imaging appointments are fairly simple and straightforward. X-rays and ultrasounds are both non-invasive and pain-free. As a result, most pets do not require any form of sedation for their diagnostic imaging appointment.
If your pet is scheduled for an ultrasound, we will need to shave a small patch of fur above the targeted imaging location to ensure a clean, unencumbered connection between the ultrasound wand and your pet’s skin.
After your pet’s imaging appointment is complete, our veterinarian will look over the results and discuss any pertinent findings with you. We can then work together to determine the best course of treatment for your pet.
Fast Veterinary Diagnostics and Treatment With Our In-House Technology
When a pet is sick or injured, every minute counts, and having on-site access to a comprehensive suite of diagnostics enables us to evaluate injuries and illnesses swiftly to provide safe and effective treatments as soon as possible. To learn more about diagnostic imaging for pets or about your pet’s imaging results, we welcome you to contact Akeso Veterinary Clinic.
