Ultrasonography

Ultrasonography is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure where an ultrasound probe is applied to the body and ultrasonic sound waves are passed through tissues to create images.  The images are created by recording echoes/reflections of ultrasonic waves from the different tissues back to the probe.

In most patients it is necessary to shave the fur away to allow for the probe to make complete contact with the skin and therefore, produce higher quality images. In some instances, sedation will be required to calm the pet and to allow the ultrasound examination to be undertaken.

Ultrasound examinations are often used to;

• Examine the thorax to assess the heart and look for fluid in the chest.
• Examine the abdomen to assess the abdominal and reproductive organs, look for masses and excess fluid.
• Determine if an animal is pregnant