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Veterinary Ultrasounds at Pets4Life Animal Hospital Highland Park, IL
An ultrasound examination, also known as ultrasonography, is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows internal body structures to be seen by recording echoes or reflections of ultrasonic waves. Unlike X-rays, ultrasounds involve no radiation.
Are There Different Forms of Ultrasound?
Depending on the images produced, ultrasound can take various forms. In veterinary work, B-mode (brightness-mode) ultrasound, more commonly called two-dimensional ultrasound, is the most common form. This gives a two-dimensional picture of the organ scanned.
How We Support You:
- Quick and comfortable examination
- Knowledgeable staff
- Immediate results
Will My Dog Need an Anesthetic?
Anesthesia is not usually needed for most ultrasound examinations unless biopsies are to be taken. The technique is totally painless and most dogs will lie comfortably while the scan is being performed. Occasionally, if the dog is very frightened or fractious, a sedative may be necessary.
Is It Necessary to Shave My Pet’s Fur?
In most cases, the fur must be shaved to perform an ultrasound examination. Since ultrasound waves are not transmitted through air, it is imperative that the hand-held probe makes complete contact with the skin. In some cases, such as pregnancy diagnosis, it may be possible to get adequate images by moistening the hair with rubbing alcohol and applying a copious amount of water-soluble ultrasound gel.
When Will I Know the Results of the Examination?
Since an ultrasound study is performed in real-time, the results of what is seen are known immediately. In some cases, the ultrasound images may be sent to a veterinary radiologist for further consultation. When this occurs, the final report may not be available for a few days.
