When your pet experiences a sudden health crisis, you need to know that they can receive a prompt, accurate diagnosis. At TrueCare for Pets, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including digital radiology, to find out exactly what’s wrong as quickly as possible so we can provide the vital aid that your furry friend requires.
Radiology involves the interpretation of radiographic images that are made by passing x-rays through an animal’s tissues. The x-rays tend to pass completely through thinner, less dense tissues, like skin, while reflecting off of more solid structures like bones. The variations in tissue density give our veterinarians a detailed picture of your pet’s interior anatomy. For example, if a fracture is present, the break may appear as a line or gap between the two pieces of bone.
While many people associate x-ray imaging only with broken bones, sensitive modern radiographic devices can also reveal problems in the heart, lungs, and other organs. Kidney stones may show up clearly as lighter or darker spots within the urinary structures on an abdominal x-ray. Gastric dilatation volvulus, a potentially fatal twisting of the stomach, can also be observed. Dental x-rays might reveal cavities, cracks, or abscesses in the teeth or gums that can cause intense oral pain. Since many of these conditions require immediate treatment, diagnostic imaging is typically one of the first things we do to care for your pets at our animal hospital.
Digital radiography has many advantages over the traditional film-based method. For one thing, processing x-rays into photographic prints takes a certain amount of time. During this time, your pet might have to maintain an uncomfortable position so the veterinarian can obtain a clear image. Digital radiography is a much faster process that poses less discomfort for your pet, while also exposing them to less radiation. Once the digital image has been captured, it’s immediately ready for viewing, with no time lost to film processing.
Digital radiology can help us to identify:
- Respiratory disease
- Heart disorders
- Chronic arthritis
- Spinal cord diseases
- Tumors
- Kidney and bladder stones
- Conditions involving the liver and other internal organs
- Gastric dilatation volvulus
- Cavities or cracked teeth
- Gum abscess
Is digital radiology safe for my pet?
Yes! Radiology is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic tool that can save your pet’s life. Digital x-rays deliver a very low dose of radiation, lower than traditional x-rays. It’s so low, in fact, that it’s even been tested safe for pregnant females and very young animals. At TrueCare for Pets, all of our veterinary diagnostic equipment is properly maintained, and diagnostic tests are only administered by qualified technicians.