Radiology

Radiographs are routinely used as a diagnostic tool. They provide valuable information about animal’s bones, gastrointestinal tract (stomach, intestines, colon), respiratory tract (lungs), heart, and genitourinary system (bladder, prostate). They can be used alone or in conjunction with other diagnostic tools to provide a list of possible causes for an animal’s condition, to identify the exact cause of a problem, and/or to rule out possible problems.

As an x-ray beam passes through a patient’s body, the beams are absorbed in different quantities by different types of tissues. Images on radiographic film appear as various shades of grey and reflect the anatomy of the animal. Light areas such as bones absorb more x-rays than darker areas such as the lungs. Interpretation of radiographs requires great skill on the part of the veterinarian. Usher Animal Hospital uses up to date radiology equipment and an automatic x-ray developer so results are received quickly.

As of Oct 2008 Usher Animal Hospital has started to use the services of PetRays. This is a service for the interpretation of radiographs by Board Certified Radiology Specialists and gives us the advantage of an expert opinion for further assisting in our diagnosis.