Diagnostic Imaging

VRC’s diagnostic imaging department serves patients by supporting all of our clinical specialties. We offer a range of on-site imaging modalities to fit a variety of needs, including:

Digital X-ray (Radiography): Used for diagnosing disease in the chest, abdomen, and musculoskeletal system. We also perform contrast studies of the gastrointestinal and urinary tract to diagnose obstructions. X-rays are typically the first imaging studies ordered to help diagnose problems.
Computed Tomography (CT scan): A type of X-ray machine that produces multiple images of the inside of the body, in thin, cross-sectional “slices” for viewing. CT scans of internal organs, bone, soft tissue, and blood vessels provide much more detail than conventional X-rays by utilizing advanced software to accentuate areas of interest in two and three dimensions.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An advanced imaging modality that uses powerful magnets to generate electromagnetic fields, which are translated into images composed of a series of “slices.” MRI scans of soft tissue are highly detailed, and unlike CT, use no radiation.
Endoscopy: VRC offers on-site endoscopy (flexible and rigid) for pets, which is performed in our dedicated suites by experienced specialists with the expertise to safely examine and evaluate the internal tissues of the esophagus, stomach, nose, ears, bladder, colon, and lungs. While patients do require general anesthesia, endoscopy is considered a minimally invasive procedure and can often be performed on an outpatient basis.
Ultrasound (Sonography): High-frequency sound waves that produce pictures of the inside of the body without radiation. Ultrasound images are captured in real-time to show the structure and movement of the body’s internal organs as well as blood flowing through vessels. Ultrasound imaging can be performed using minimal restraint or sedation and is used to help diagnose conditions such as abdominal pain, pancreatitis, enlarged abdominal organ, and kidney stones. We also use ultrasound to guide needle biopsies, in which a needle is used to extract a sample of cells from organs for laboratory testing.

Ultrasound FAQs

What is an ultrasound and how does it work?

Ultrasound uses sound waves at an extremely high frequency to visualize internal structures without radiation. These images are also able to show internal movement in real time, including blood flow through vessels and organs along with digestion. Ultrasound is often essential in the diagnosis of internal conditions like pancreatitis or symptoms like abdominal pain. It is also used to guide needle sampling procedures, which are performed to assist in the diagnosis of certain diseases like cancer.

When might my pet need an ultrasound?

Pets that are stable and in need of internal imaging are ideal candidates for outpatient ultrasound. Some of the common reasons for outpatient ultrasound include:

Pets with an internal mass (known or suspected)
Pets that are pregnant
Cancer screenings
Pets with elevated liver enzymes
Pets with recent blood work changes
Pets experiencing symptoms of gastrointestinal disease
Pets experiencing symptoms of liver disease
Pets experiencing symptoms of kidney disease

When might my pet need an emergency ultrasound?

If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, an emergency ultrasound may be needed to make a fast, accurate diagnosis when seconds count. From detecting foreign bodies to cardiac issues, emergency ultrasound is a standard for human hospitals, which is why we offer it 7 days a week to our patients. Experienced emergency veterinarians, including a board-certified critical care specialist are prepared to utilize this essential tool to diagnose disease and save lives in our ICU.