Since the early 1980's, ultrasound has been used in veterinary teaching hospitals and large referral centers to diagnose many
disease processes in small animals. It is now considered to be an essential service in general small animal practices. We, at
Old Dominion Animal Hospital, are pleased to announce we have just purchased the Sound Technologies Ultrasound System. It uses
the most innovative technology and is an all-digital color ultrasound machine with power and spectral doppler, a CD ROM for
imaging and archiving, and has wireless capabilities.
The reason the ultrasound machine is so critial is simple: ultrasound offers a non-invasive, non-painful method for
diagnosing many diseases. Ultrasound allows us to visualize internal structures. Organs that are difficult to see on plain
film radiographs can easily be seen with ultrasound. Internal abnormalities such as nodules, masses, cysts, and abscesses
cannot only be seen, but can be identified and measured.
The ultrasound is also an invaluable tool in the diagnosis of heart disease. Real time echocardiography (ultrasound examination
of the heart) allows us to see the heart in motion. From these images, measurements can be made of cardiac contractility, wall
thickness, blood flow dynamics, and valvular integrity.
The typical ultrasound examination required no tranquilization or anesthesia. Prior fasting or water withholding is not necessary.
The entire scanning process takes only 30-40 minutes. Our new ultrasound has a lap top component so it is mobile and can be moved from
examination to treatment room as needed to make the imaging process easier on your pet. Once the images are acquired on the monitor
of the ultrasound machine, they can be saved on a CD for later viewing. The images can also be digitally transferred to a board
certified internal medicine veterinary specialist when a quick, critical consultation is necessary.
One of Old Dominion Animal Hospital's veterinarians, Dr. Cary Hughes, has completed an intensive, continuing education course
in California on the use of the ultrasound machine. We strive to provide a knowledgeable staff and the most up to date services
available and feel the ultrasound will allow us to continue to offer the best possible care for your pets.
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