What is Veterinary Canine Diagnostic Imaging?
Veterinary diagnostic imaging includes radiographs (x-rays), ultrasound, MRIs, and CT scans, all of which are used as diagnostic tools to collect information on your dog’s health. The vast majority of imaging is non-invasive and completely painless. However, some imaging may require sedation or even anesthesia because the dog must be kept still to allow for adequate images to be produced. Veterinarians use these images to collect information on your dog to help them develop a medical and sometimes surgical plan.
When Is Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Necessary?
After your veterinarian has examined your dog, they may need to collect more information to reach a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan. X-rays are usually the first line of imaging and may lead directly to a diagnosis. In some cases, ultrasound is the next step to obtain a more thorough or specific view of a particular area of the body.
For example, if your dog is vomiting and feeling ill, your veterinarian may take an x-ray to look for causes such as an intestinal obstruction or a foreign body. An x-ray may show signs of obstruction, but before proceeding with surgery, an abdominal ultrasound may be recommended. Ultrasound provides greater detail of the affected area and allows the veterinarian to proceed with greater confidence when developing a treatment plan. In some cases, imaging leads to a definitive diagnosis; in others, it provides valuable information that helps complete the diagnostic picture.
The four types of veterinary diagnostic imaging our veterinarians may utilize include:
- X-rays
- Ultrasound
- MRI
- CT scans
Additional information on each imaging modality is provided below.
Dog X-Rays
Dog x-rays have been used in veterinary medicine for decades and remain the most commonly used form of diagnostic imaging. They are cost-effective and useful for evaluating skeletal structure, large body cavities, and the presence of many foreign objects. Dog x-rays are painless, though some dogs may benefit from sedation to reduce stress.
Dog x-rays typically proceed as follows:
- The dog is positioned on the x-ray table
- The technician aligns the x-ray beam to the area of interest
- Modern x-ray equipment uses very low radiation levels and is safe when used appropriately
- Because x-rays are static images, the procedure usually takes less time than an MRI
While x-rays were traditionally captured on film, modern systems are digital. Digital images are stored securely and can be accessed by veterinarians at any time or shared with specialists if needed.
Dog Ultrasounds
Ultrasound is the second most commonly used diagnostic imaging tool in veterinary medicine. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of internal organs and tissues. This allows veterinarians to observe organ structure, blood flow, and function from multiple angles that are not easily captured with x-rays.
A dog ultrasound procedure typically proceeds as follows:
- A technician gently presses a probe against the dog’s body
- The probe emits sound waves directed into the abdominal area
- Sound waves change speed as they pass through tissues of varying density, creating echoes
- The ultrasound system converts echoes into digital images
- Images are viewed in real time and stored for later review
Modern ultrasound systems, such as those used at Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital, Inc, produce dynamic, real-time images as the probe moves across the body. Ultrasound helps veterinarians determine the cause of illness and develop the most effective treatment plan.
Common symptoms that may prompt ultrasound imaging include vomiting, weight loss, kidney impairment or blockage, and heart disease.
Dog MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most advanced diagnostic imaging tools used in veterinary medicine. MRI uses a powerful magnetic field to generate highly detailed images without using x-rays, making it extremely safe.
A dog MRI procedure typically proceeds as follows:
- Dogs are sedated to ensure they remain completely still
- The dog is placed inside a tubular electromagnetic chamber
- Radio waves pulse through the body for approximately 10–20 minutes
- Tissues emit radio frequency signals that are detected by the MRI system
- The system converts these signals into detailed images for review and storage
Because MRI equipment is expensive and requires specialized training, it is not used as frequently as x-rays or ultrasound. Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital, Inc provides referrals to specialists for dog MRI services.
CT Scans For Dogs
CT scans, also known as CAT scans, are computer-enhanced x-ray procedures used to evaluate complex structures such as the head, chest, joints, and internal organs. CT scans produce more detailed images than standard x-rays by showing differences in tissue density.
Unlike MRI, CT scans do not use magnetic fields and cannot assess fluid changes related to inflammation or bleeding. CT scans are often recommended when x-rays are inconclusive but MRI is unnecessary.
A CT scan procedure usually proceeds as follows:
- The dog is sedated to ensure stillness
- The dog is positioned on a motorized table within the CT scanner
- The scanner takes a series of x-rays from multiple angles
- A computer creates cross-sectional images of the target area
- Contrast dye may be administered to enhance visualization
CT scans allow detailed imaging of organs or structures without invasive procedures.
CT scans are commonly used to detect:
- Tumors
- Deep abscesses or foreign bodies
- Fractures
As with MRI, CT scan equipment is large, costly, and requires trained personnel. Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital, Inc offers referrals to specialists for CT scan services.
How Canine Radiographs Influence Veterinary Recommendations
The goal of canine radiographs is to obtain a diagnosis or gather critical information without resorting to more invasive tests or procedures. For example, an x-ray may show swelling in a knee, while an MRI can identify a specific ligament or tendon tear and guide a precise treatment plan.
Veterinary diagnostic imaging provides invaluable insight into a dog’s condition. In some cases, imaging results prompt additional diagnostics as part of a step-by-step investigation needed to reach an accurate diagnosis.
If you are concerned your dog may be injured or experiencing internal issues, or if you would like to learn more about how diagnostic imaging can help, please contact us to schedule an appointment.