What is a Board Certified Veterinary Radiologist?
Veterinary radiologists are an elite group of veterinarians (there are fewer than 500 in the world) who have completed an approved Residency Program in diagnostic imaging that includes at least three years of advanced training in radiology (x-ray), ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear medicine, as well as intensive study in imaging physics, anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology. After completion of an imaging residency, a candidate must pass two rigorous examinations, both written and oral, before obtaining Diplomate status in the American College of Veterinary Radiology.
Why do I need a radiologist?
In human medicine all imaging is interpreted by a board certified radiologist; however, in veterinary medicine, many veterinarians interpret their own radiographs. In many cases, there is additional information available on the radiographs that is easily appreciated. Primary care veterinarians may evaluate a few radiographs a week, where as a veterinary radiologist will commonly see a few dozen radiographs a day. No one has as much training and experience interpreting imaging studies as an ACVR Diplomate This extensive training, combined with advanced study in anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology, enable the board certified radiologist to provide a comprehensive interpretation of the imaging as well as provide recommendations for additional imaging, diagnostics and patient care
What is ultrasound?
An ultrasound exam is a medical test that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create images of organs the inside of the body. The ultrasound machine sends out high-frequency sound waves that reflect off the body structures. A computer receives these waves and uses them to create pictures. Unlike x-rays or CT scans, this text does not expose you to ionizing radiation. Ultrasound can also be used to measure the flow of blood in the arteries and veins.
Is Ultrasound Safe?
Studies have shown that ultrasound is generally safe. There are no known harmful side effects and there is virtually no discomfort during the examination.
What can I expect when my pet has an ultrasound?
Veterinary radiologists are an elite group of veterinarians (there are fewer than 500 in the world) who have completed an approved Residency Program in diagnostic imaging that includes at least three years of advanced training in radiology (x-ray), ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear medicine, as well as intensive study in imaging physics, anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology. After completion of an imaging residency, a candidate must pass two rigorous examinations, both written and oral, before obtaining Diplomate status in the American College of Veterinary Radiology.
Why do I need a radiologist?
In human medicine all imaging is interpreted by a board certified radiologist; however, in veterinary medicine, many veterinarians interpret their own radiographs. In many cases, there is additional information available on the radiographs that is easily appreciated. Primary care veterinarians may evaluate a few radiographs a week, where as a veterinary radiologist will commonly see a few dozen radiographs a day. No one has as much training and experience interpreting imaging studies as an ACVR Diplomate This extensive training, combined with advanced study in anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology, enable the board certified radiologist to provide a comprehensive interpretation of the imaging as well as provide recommendations for additional imaging, diagnostics and patient care
What is ultrasound?
An ultrasound exam is a medical test that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create images of organs the inside of the body. The ultrasound machine sends out high-frequency sound waves that reflect off the body structures. A computer receives these waves and uses them to create pictures. Unlike x-rays or CT scans, this text does not expose you to ionizing radiation. Ultrasound can also be used to measure the flow of blood in the arteries and veins.
Is Ultrasound Safe?
Studies have shown that ultrasound is generally safe. There are no known harmful side effects and there is virtually no discomfort during the examination.
What can I expect when my pet has an ultrasound?
- You may be asked to withhold food from your pet for 12 hours prior to the exam--this will help in reduce gas and GI tract contents which can hinder the sound waves
- Your pet will have his or her haircoat clipped in the region that is being scanned in order for the sound waves to penetrate through the skin (hair will trap air which will reflect the sound waves)
- Your pet will lie on a padded examination table.
- A small amount of water-soluble gel will be applied to the skin over the area to be examined. The gel will not harm the pet (even if ingested) and will be wiped off after the exam.
- A wand-like device called a transducer is gently applied against the skin
- In general, most ultrasound examinations can be performed without the need for sedation or anesthesia. Exceptions are pets that are highly stressed or those that require tissue sampling (fine needle aspirates or tissue core biopsies). Your veterinarian will help you decide based on your pet's needs.
