Imaging Modalities

Advancements in imaging technology have had a tremendous impact on the diagnostic capability of veterinary specialists. Abdominal ultrasonography, echocardiography, digital x-ray imaging, computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have all made outstanding contributions to making difficult diagnoses routine and have greatly influenced improvements in pet health and sustained quality of life. The diagnostic imaging capabilities at Metropolitan Veterinary Referral Services are one of the major reasons primary care veterinarians refer patients. They have confidence in our ability to use this technology to uncover the underlying cause of many pet illnesses. Our capabilities include:

• Radiographs (also known as x-rays)
• Fluoroscopy ("live" radiographic imaging)
• Ultrasound
• Echocardiography
• Spiral computerized tomography (CT)

Radiographs

Radiographs are x-ray images taken of the any area of the body (chest, abdomen, skull, limbs) as part of an initial diagnostic work-up.  Contrast media, such as barium, and iodinated solutions can be administered to allow more detailed studies of the digestive organs and urinary tract (bladder and urethra).

Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy involves the use of real time "live" x-ray imaging allowing us to watch the actual movement of internal structures within the chest or abdomen. Examples include: tracheal movement during breathing, esophageal or gastric movement during and after swallowing, gastric emptying after eating and diaphragm movement during respiration. Intravenous contrast can be introduced into the blood stream and watched as it flows through the blood stream. Barium contrast solutions can be introduced into the mouth and watched as they pass through the digestive tract. Contrast agents can also be visualized in real time as they pass through the kidneys and urinary system. These images can be digitally recorded as a motion picture on a CD to document the findings. Owners can watch these studies in our networked digital imaging system found in each exam room.

Ultrasound

Ultrasonography is a non invasive technique that makes use of high frequency ultrasound waves to examine the soft tissues and internal structures of the abdomen and chest. The images are seen in “gray scale" on a television monitor. It is wonderful technology that allows doctors to see very detailed images in real time of many of the structures in the chest and abdomen. It can also be used to examine the eye and in some cases the brain in young dogs. The machines are very expensive and require extensive training to make use of the technology. This is why they are found commonly in all specialty practices but only occasionally in general practices. We employ Megas GT System from Biosound and an Apogee CX System from ATL system. Both systems allow detailed examination of the heart through color flow doppler technology. The ultrasound machine is mobile allowing cage side studies of intensive care patients who are too critical to be moved. This system is also digital so the studies can be emailed to referring veterinarians.

Ultrasound is an ideal non-invasive technique for evaluation of small animals. Abnormal fluid accumulations, masses, enlarged organs, and other abnormalities are readily identified in much greater detail than can be appreciated with physical examination or routine x-rays studies. Ultrasound is often used to guide fine needle aspiration of masses, to obtain fluid samples and for taking biopsies of organs such as the liver, spleen, kidney, lung or lymph nodes.

Echocardiography

The ultrasound machine is commonly used to perform detailed studies of the heart - echocardiograms. These studies provide a 3-dimensional image of the heart as it moves in real time. Besides the visual impression of heart function, specific measurements are taken allowing a detailed assessment of the size and shape of the internal heart structures, and the ability of the heart muscle to contract. This information is crucial to the diagnosis of most heart diseases and it can direct the selection of medications to treat heart problems.

Spiral Computed tomography (CT)

Computed tomography (CT) is available through MVRS. The spiral CT unit is located within 15 minutes of our clinic and this technology enables imaging of any body part in approximately 10 minutes. It is ideal for evaluating the lungs for metastasis of cancer, the brain for hemorrhage or tumors, the nasal passages, and abdominal organs that cannot be imaged by other techniques. Often, contrast media is administered to identify organs and blood supply. Brief sedation or general anesthesia is required to accomplish these studies.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (VetMR)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is performed when standard methods of imaging such as radiography, ultrasound or CT imaging is not adequate to demonstrate the cause of a medical problem.  A MRI unit is available through the teaching hospital at the University of Minnesota. It is ideal for imaging hard to reach soft tissue structures such as the brain, spinal cord, and joints. It is an ideal aid for the diagnosis of neurologic problems in your pet. It can also be used for diagnosing ear and nasal problems.