Pet CT Scans

While it’s similar to a traditional X-ray, a computed tomography scan obtains images of slices of a patient, meaning we can go very small and later reconstruct the slices into three-dimensional models of the affected area. A CT scan for pets is nearly identical to those done in humans. The equipment, including the machine, is mostly the same, and the only difference in procedure is that most pets require anesthetization in order to keep them completely still throughout the procedure.

• Quick & Comfortable Examination
• Knowledgeable Staff
• Immediate Results

The models assembled following a CT scan are ideal when it comes to understanding apparent anomalies in the body and planning for various surgeries.

A CT scan may also be conducted on an animal’s lungs. This helps our specialists identify or rule out metastasis (or spreading) of various cancers that are known to be present elsewhere in the body. To this end, CT scans are vital tools for understanding the extent of canine and feline cancers and planning for treatment.

CT scans also help our team understand orthopedic abnormalities (like elbow dysplasia) and plan for corrective procedures. Dentists order them to examine tooth decay and abscesses. And in cases of poly-trauma—where multiple organs and systems are damaged—CT scans enable us to obtain a firmer grasp on the severity and complexity of the various injuries, facilitating smarter and more strategic treatment.

Once the animal is under, she is positioned by a veterinary technologist. Then, the technologist and anesthesiologist step into a separate room to run the scan. There is a large window through which everyone can monitor the animal and her vitals. Every scan only takes about 30 seconds, and between each, the anesthesiologist steps into the room with the animal to check on her. The entire procedure—from going under to waking up—takes about 45 minutes.

In some cases, the scan may be conducted twice—once normally and once with an injection of iodine. This allows the radiologist to observe an abnormal intake of iodine, which might indicate inflammation or tumors.

A report is generated immediately following the exam, and in most cases, it’s in the hands of the referring veterinarian hours later.