Radiographs
The common term for a radiograph is an x-ray. These images can help diagnose problems and conditions with the bones and joints, such as broken bones, swelling in the joints and other types of bone abnormalities. X-rays can also be used to diagnose problems with the internal organs, like the heart, lungs, spleen, liver and kidneys.
For all other radiology services, Southern Veterinary Hospital may refer you to another facility within the state.For CT scans and MRI’s, we may refer you to the North Carolina State University Veterinary Hospital, located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Once diagnostics are performed within their facility, we will gather all collective information to better diagnose your pet’s ailments.
If your pet is in need of an ultrasound or an echocardiogram, Dr. Martin may refer you to Carolina Veterinary Mobile Radiology with Dr. Sloan Dupree-Turner, within Eastern Carolina Veterinary Referral, located in Wilmington, North Carolina.
When it comes to accurately diagnosing and treating your pet after he or she has experienced an injury or illness, you can count on our veterinary team to have the latest diagnostic equipment, including digital imaging devices and ultrasound machines.
Injuries and Ailments Diagnosed via Radiology and Ultrasounds
Digital images, including ultrasounds, radiographs, MRIs and CT scans are used to diagnose a variety of conditions and ailments in dogs and cats. Common conditions diagnosed include broken bones, joint problems, tumors, brain abnormalities and problems with the internal organs, including the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and bladder.
Ultrasound Imaging
Ultrasound imaging involves using sound waves to create an image on a computer monitor. When a radiologist passes the wand over an injured area of your pet, we are able to find otherwise hidden problems, like when your pet accidentally eats something that isn’t food, has a tumor or has problems with an internal organ, like the stomach, spleen, liver and pancreas. Ultrasound imaging is completely painless and does not have any side-effects.
MRIs
MRI is an acronym for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. This type of diagnostic equipment has the ability to produce detailed images of the internal structures of the body. They are helpful in diagnosing tumors and abnormalities in the brain as well as spinal disorders, like herniated discs and spinal stenosis in cats and dogs.
CT Scans
The acronym CT stands for computed tomography. These are essentially highly detailed x-rays that can show cross sections of your dog or cat’s anatomy. While the CT machine is taking images, our veterinarian has the ability to enhance and focus on specific parts of your pet’s body in order to make a detailed and accurate diagnosis.
Diagnosing Your Pet’s Ailment or Injury
Once Southern Veterinary Hospital understands the depth of your pet’s illness or injury, a treatment plan will be developed in order to help your pet heal and restore your pet’s health. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health and his or her diagnosis, we would be happy to answer them and provide you with guidance in order to help make your pet comfortable during the healing process.
NCSU (North Carolina State University): Cvm.ncsu.edu/NC-state-vet-hospital/about-us/
ECVR (ultrasound- Dr. Turner): Ecvetreferral.com
For more information on our radiology and diagnostic imaging services in Whiteville, call us at (910) 642-3776 today.
