CT Scans now available in our Dover location

Veterinary CT (computed tomography) scans, also known as veterinary CT imaging or simply “pet CT scans,” are diagnostic tools used in veterinary medicine to obtain detailed, cross-sectional images of an animal’s internal structures. These images are produced by combining multiple X-ray projections taken from different angles around the animal, which are then processed by a computer to create detailed cross-sectional images, or “slices,” of the body.

Here are some key points about veterinary CT scans:

  1. Purpose: Veterinary CT scans are primarily used for diagnostic purposes, helping veterinarians to visualize and assess various anatomical structures within an animal’s body. This can include bones, soft tissues, and organs.
  2. Indications: Veterinarians may recommend CT scans for various reasons, including investigating trauma, assessing tumors or masses, evaluating the extent of disease, planning surgeries, and diagnosing complex medical conditions.
  3. Procedure: The animal is typically placed under anesthesia for a CT scan to ensure they remain still during the procedure. Once the animal is positioned correctly, the CT machine takes a series of X-ray images from different angles. These images are then processed by a computer to create detailed cross-sectional images.
  4. Speed and Precision: One of the advantages of CT scans is their speed and precision. They can quickly produce detailed images, making them especially useful in emergency situations where time is of the essence.
  5. Three-Dimensional Reconstruction: CT scans can be used to create three-dimensional reconstructions of the scanned area, allowing veterinarians to view structures from various angles and perspectives. This is particularly valuable for surgical planning.
  6. Radiation Exposure: Like human CT scans, veterinary CT scans involve exposure to ionizing radiation. Veterinarians take precautions to minimize radiation exposure to the animal and themselves, including using the lowest necessary dose of radiation and employing lead aprons and other protective measures.
  7. Contrast Agents: In some cases, contrast agents may be administered to enhance the visibility of specific structures or abnormalities in the images. This is especially common when looking at blood vessels, the gastrointestinal tract, or other soft tissues.
  8. Safety: While CT scans are generally considered safe, there are potential risks associated with anesthesia and radiation exposure. Veterinarians carefully weigh these risks against the diagnostic benefits when recommending CT scans.
  9. Integration with Other Imaging: Veterinary CT scans are often used in conjunction with other imaging modalities like X-rays and ultrasound to provide a more comprehensive diagnostic picture.

Overall, veterinary CT scans have become valuable tools in modern veterinary medicine, helping veterinarians diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions in animals with greater precision and accuracy. However, they are typically reserved for cases where the information they provide is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning.  If you have any questions or would like to inquire about a CT scan for your pet, please give us a call at 603-740-1800.