Ultrasound
Brighton Veterinary Hospital offers on the spot advanced echocardiography and abdominal ultrasonography. Your patient does not have to wait days, up to weeks to have an ultrasound performed.
In the event of illness, our state-of-the-art diagnostic services ensure a prompt diagnosis, allowing your pet to receive therapeutic medication on the very same day. Moreover, urgent surgery can be conducted on-site without unnecessary delays. This distinctive service sets us apart from most veterinary clinics, guaranteeing the optimal and timely care your beloved pet deserves.
What is an ultrasound scan?
Ultrasound scanning is a painless procedure that uses high frequency sound waves (inaudible to humans) to produce images of structures within the body. When sound waves are directed into the body, some are absorbed by body tissues and others bounce back. The sound waves that bounce back are measured by the ultrasound machine and are transformed into an image on a screen. Extensive training is required in order to correctly use this equipment and interpret these images. Ultrasound scans are most useful for looking at soft or fluid-filled organs, like the liver, kidney, bladder and heart. It is less effective for examining bones or air-filled organs, like the lungs.
What happens to my pet when it is booked in for an ultrasound scan?
The area to be scanned will be shaved, so your pet may look different when they come home. No pain is felt during an ultrasound exam. However, discomfort from pressure may be experienced. Sedatives may be necessary for those animals that won’t stay still or are uncomfortable. During the scan, a water-soluble gel is applied over the clipped area to be examined and a transducer (probe) is placed on the skin.
