MEDICAL IMAGING

Because animals are not capable of communicating their sources of pain and discomfort, the use of imaging equipment can be an important component in diagnosing their health conditions. WestVet uses imaging tools such as digital radiography (x-rays), ultrasonography, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), CT, fluoroscopy, myelograms, and pyelonephrograms may be performed and analyzed by a WestVet internal medicine or surgery specialist, or they may be sent out to a board certified veterinary radiologist for interpretation.


The following are disorders and symptoms that can be revealed by use of radiological imaging tools:

Disorder
Description/Symptoms
Disc Herniation Loss of motor function, paralysis
Bone / Growth Deformities Premature closure of growth plates, spinal growth abnormalities, and hereditary abnormalities such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD)
Stones / Obstructions in Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder, or Urethra Dripping, discomfort, or inability to urinate properly
Intestinal or Gastric Obstructions Foreign objects injested, bloated, lethargy, vomitting
Cancer / Soft Tissue and Bone Tumors Lung, liver, spleen, intestinal, and brain tumors. Tumors of the long bones and spine (osteosarcoma).

*This is not a complete listing of the disorders or symptoms that may require diagnostic imaging or interpretation by a veterinary radiologist. Please consult your family veterinarian if your pet's health concern requires diagnosis or interpretation of a specialist.