Digital Radiography
Animal Health Clinic has digital radiography (“X-rays”) available for diagnosing internal health problems. The digital system gives us a tremendous advantage in clarity and detail over traditional film radiographs, and allows us to diagnose problems much more easily. The images are also much faster to take and result in far less radiation exposure to the patient and staff. An important advantage over film is the ability to email these images to Radiology specialists for further review.
Radiographs
Radiographs help the doctor make diagnoses in many ways. Fractured bones, fluid in the chest, and enlarged heart, and abnormal growths are just a few of the things that can be detected by taking radiographs.
Cystogram
Cystograms are performed to find tumors and stones in the bladder. A radiograph is taken after a special dye or air is injected into the bladder to help highlight any abnormalities.
IVP
IVP’s are done when pets have kidney or other unexplained urinary problems. A special contrast material (dye) is injected intravenously into the pet and then several radiographs are taken of the kidneys. This lets the veterinarian see how the urinary tract system is functioning.
Barium Services
Pets often have barium series performed when they have unexplained vomiting. Pets are given liquid barium orally and radiographs are taken at specific intervals. Veterinarians can then see how the barium is flowing through the digestive tract.
OFA
OFA x-rays are subjective x-rays done on dogs to check for hip dysplasia. Many breeders require these x-rays be done before breeding.
Pregnancy Check
Both radiographs and ultrasound can be used to check and see if a pet is pregnant. Ultrasound can be used as early as 21 days into suspected pregnancy and radiographs can be taken in 45 days. Ultrasound can show each fetus’ heartbeat and can give a very rough estimation of how many babies to expect.
