Ultrasonography

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. The images can be printed or recorded. 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, pancreas, spleen, 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?

Most of our patients are admitted into hospital for the day to have an ultrasound scan done, unless it is an emergency and we’ll do it immediately.

We ask that you bring your pet in fasted on the day of their ultrasound to allow us to do the best scan possible.

Fasting means no food from 10pm the previous evening, water is ok to be left with your pet overnight.

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. Sedation 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.
Once the scan has been completed we will give you a call and book an appointment for your veterinarian to show you the images, discuss the findings and the treatment options for your pet.