Radiology

Ultrasound is a very useful diagnostic tool. While radiographs can tell you a lot about the bones and also about the size and shape of internal organs, they can't tell you why an organ is enlarged. Ultrasound is a much better tool for looking at internal structures such as the liver and kidneys. It allows you to see the difference between fluid pockets and tumors. Biopsies and needle aspirates can also be obtained with ultrasound guidance in a way that is safer and less invasive than surgery.

Please have your regular veterinarian contact Animal Critical Care for more information on any of these services.

Additionally, ACCES is now capable of MRI and CT scans using an off-site facility.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses non-invasive techniques (the skin or body cavity is not cut into or entered surgically) to create detailed images of your animal’s body. We use the results from these images to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of an injury or illness.

MRI does not use ionizing radiation to create images. It takes advantage of the water molecules within your animal’s body combined with a powerful magnet and radiofrequencies to obtain images. The body part to be examined is placed into a device known as MRI coil, which is used to transmit and receive signals from this region. A computer interprets the signals into a series of detailed images which is then transferred to a monitor or a sheet of film similar to x-ray film for review.

Computerized Axial Tomography - also known as CAT or CT, scans images your animal’s body in slices showing the structures in that area. A computer is used to provide clear, sharp images. CT is used to detect and define the characterization of various disease processes of the body. CT is also used to assist in biopsies (removal of tissue for laboratory testing).

Our MRI and CT programs are set up to ensure the best diagnostic images using the latest technologies available. This in turn provides images, which allow pathological processes to the easily identified and sampled, if needed.