Radiography is an important part of diagnostic imaging in veterinary medicine. The radiology service in the small animal hospital performs thousands of studies every year on dogs, cats, and exotic pets. X-ray images (radiographs) allow radiologists and other specialists to examine the body for injury or disease. Not only used for bones, radiographs provide examination of the heart, lungs, and abdominal organs. Radiography is often the first line of diagnostic imaging with which a radiologist can either make a diagnosis, or direct the need for further imaging. It is quick, painless, and economical. In some cases, follow-up examinations are used to monitor a patient’s progress throughout the hospital stay.
All radiographic studies at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital are directed and reviewed by board certified radiologists, the specialists of diagnostic imaging. A dedicated team of licensed veterinary technicians work closely with the radiologists to perform both routine and specialized exams. Advanced procedures such as contrast radiography, positional radiography, nuclear medicine (bone scans), and fluoroscopy (real time moving radiography) are performed daily.
Digital radiography has revolutionized both human and veterinary medicine due to its convenience and improved detail for soft tissues. All radiographic studies performed at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital are digital. This means that multiple experts can be examining the patient’s radiographs throughout the hospital at the same time. A surgeon can consult with a radiologist from the surgery room while both see the same images from different locations. We can also provide a CD copy of the images to you or your primary veterinarian for more complete records.
