Veterinary Services
X-Rays
An X-ray, also known as radiography, is a diagnostic process that enables vets to examine the bones and internal organs of your pet to check for any problems or diseases. X-rays are a frequently used imaging method that provides vets with additional knowledge about a dog’s or cat’s internal health.
VETERINARY SERVICES
when can x-rays be used?
Examples of situations where X-rays may be used on dogs or cats include:
- Difficulties with the joints, including lameness, fractures, and deformities
- Checking the abdomen for symptoms such as a bloated or aching belly, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Observing alterations in your pet, such as stones, cysts, or tumours
- Monitoring the health of the liver, heart, lungs, and other organs
- Identifying oral issues including fractures and abscesses
X-rays have been the most widely utilised type of medical imaging by vets for many years.
X-rays are non-invasive, much like other medical imaging methods, so your pet doesn’t need to have any incisions made in order to receive an image.
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X-RAYS
How are x-rays taken?
A vet will typically sedate dogs and cats or give them a general anaesthetic since it is important for your pet to remain still during an x-ray. Your pet will be properly positioned and have its X-ray image taken after falling asleep. Most vets will use a highly specialised digital system that quickly processes the image and allows them to rotate, zoom, and correct it. To provide the most accurate and thorough information on the potential problem, it may occasionally be necessary to take multiple images, in multiple positions, during this process. Your pet’s medical file will then contain these images.
FAQS
Frequently asked questions
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Are there any side effects/risks of X-rays?
X-rays are not harmful to your pet, and the diagnostic advantages they provide far outweigh the minimal radiation exposure. It might be necessary to administer anaesthesia in order to get a clear image if your pet is in pain or uncomfortable. The risks of anaesthesia and sedation are taken into account by your veterinarian.
X-ray vs Ultrasound
In contrast to x-rays, which only show structures in silhouette, ultrasound gives a view inside different organs. Because of this, ultrasound is a frequently used diagnostic tool. When assessing bony anomalies or objects inside the chest cavity other than the heart, ultrasound has drawbacks. This is due to the fact that bone and air (the lungs are filled with air) block sound waves. Unless an animal is extremely agitated, wiggly, or fractious, ultrasound can typically be done with only mild restraint.
X-ray vs CT scan
A moving x-ray machine is used in CT imaging. The animal is rotated around by the x-ray and recording equipment. An image is assembled using the data that the recording device sends to the computer. The image has many slices, like a loaf of bread. The information is then organised so that the person reading the CT scan can view the images individually or as a whole.
X-ray vs MRI scan
A magnetic field and high-frequency radio waves are used in MRI imaging to produce an image. Compared to other imaging studies, an MRI produces more soft tissue (as opposed to bone) detail. Second, it does so without subjecting the patient to radiation. When examining solid organs (liver, spleen, kidneys), the spinal cord, and soft tissue structures like muscles, tendons, and ligaments, MRI is the best option.
How much does an X-ray cost?
The price of an X-ray depends greatly on the particular case, the number of shots needed, the veterinary practise, and whether anaesthesia is needed. It’s also important to keep in mind that if you get an x-ray at an emergency clinic, you could be charged up to twice as much.
Why does it take so long to get the results?
The images from these examinations will be available to your veterinarian the same day, but before making a final diagnosis, they might want to send them to a specialist for a second opinion. Some veterinarians only read ultrasounds and x-rays, so they may be less likely to overlook some information in the images. Nowadays, some veterinary clinics have a specialist on staff or one who comes by frequently to undertake these assessments.
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