Canine and Feline Radiology Services
Nuclear Scintigraphy
Nuclear medicine is an effective option to have available for your pet. Nuclear scintigraphy is a painless, non-invasive imaging technique useful for evaluation of kidneys, brain, thyroid, gallbladder, and liver. This imaging technique goes beyond physical anatomy: it shows the physiology, or function, of an organ. Evaluating the blood flow (perfusion) to, or through, an organ can diagnose many common diseases or illnesses before moving on to more serious treatment options. The scintigraphy technique is modeled from human medicine, meaning a pet receives the same scan you would at a hospital or imaging center.
Nuclear medicine employs radiopharmaceuticals, also called radiotracers or radioisotopes. The radiotracers emit gamma radiation captured by a gamma camera. The camera uses the gamma radiation to create an image to visualize organs like the heart, thyroid, gallbladder, and liver. Tracers are administered by intravenous injection prior to the scan. Each tracer then targets a specific organ or organ system. The gamma camera works with computers to acquire data that is essential for a proper diagnosis. The amount of radioactive tracer your pet receives is small and your pet’s body will eliminate it within a few days via the urinary tract. No contrast agents are required.
Digital Radiography
Digital radiography is an x-ray technology utilizing digital-detection systems. This technology provides quick and clear radiographic images. Many others refer to computed radiology (CR) as digital, but VREC offers a true digital radiography (DR) system.
Digital radiography uses sensors directed at the x-rays, allowing staff to manipulate the obtained image(s). Clinicians are able to view images in ways not possible using traditional film radiographs. Because digital radiography is much more sensitive than conventional radiology, a lower radiation dosage is possible. Digital radiographs can quickly viewed and evaluated. They also have the capability to be emailed to board-certified radiologists, allowing our clinicians access to advanced image interpretation.