Radiography & Ultrasounds
Radiography (X-Rays)
Radiography is the most commonly used diagnostic tool in veterinary practice. It provides a large amount of information by a non-invasive and economical method. It does not alter the disease process or cause anything more than minor discomfort to the animal.
Convential radiography uses certain types of electromagnetic radiation (both ionizing and non-ionizing) to create images for medical diagnoses. Clinical radiology allows the doctor to look at a pet's bones, organs (kidney, heart, liver, etc) and associated tissues to try to formulate a list of possible causes for your pet's condition.
At MAMC, we use a digital x-ray machine (filmless radiography) that does not require the use of any film, screens or processing chemicals that were used in conventional radiography. Digital radiography uses the same techniques as conventional radiography to take the image, but the processing is done entirely digitally.
The digital system allows for a faster processing speed, the ability to manipulate images on a computer, the ability to cheaply transport images between hospitals and to clients (they can be burned on to a cd-rom).
Ultrasonagraphy
Ultrasonagraphy, or ultrasound, is a diagnostic imaging technique similar to radiology. Unlike x-ray, an ultrasound allows a more detailed visualization of the body's structures. Ultrasound can be used to examine organs (kidneys, liver, heart, bladder) or other issues with soft tissues such as dectecting fluids, cysts, tumors or abscesses. As with humans, ultrasound can also be used to determine whether an animal is pregnant or to monitor the pregnancy.
The area in question is shaved and 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 the amount of fluid present. The sounds are then fed back through the transducer and are reflected on a viewing monitor. Ultrasound is a painless procedure with no known side effect. It does not involve radiation.