535 East Meadow Ave, East Meadow, NY 11554
Faster, More Accurate Diagnostic Imaging
Taking radiographs (X-rays) is a diagnostic procedure with which most people are familiar. As in human medicine, they are a commonly utilized diagnostic test in veterinary medicine. While taking the X-ray hasn't changed much over the years, there have been major advancements in the processing of the images. In the past, the films had to be developed by hand in a darkroom or developed in a machine that processed the film. This was a very time-consuming process and if the film wasn't of diagnostic quality, a second or third exposure had to be taken. This added additional time to the process as well as more exposure to radiation to the patient. At our practice we process the image using digital processing. It takes seconds for the image to appear on the computer screen, and if the image isn't perfect, adjustments can be made in order to improve the quality. This normally eliminates the need for additional exposures. Another benefit is that if needed, the images can be sent via the internet to board certified radiologists for interpretation.
The other imaging technique we employ frequently is diagnostic ultrasonography. This is the use of an ultrasound machine that produces images on a computer screen via sound waves. It is particularly useful for the diagnosis of diseases affecting the abdominal cavity as well as those affecting the heart. In most cases a specialist in veterinary internal medicine performs this test on-site and no sedation is needed.
Diagnostic Ultrasonography
Ultrasound is a powerful, non-invasive imaging tool that uses sound waves to produce real-time images of your pet's internal structures. Unlike X-rays, which are best suited for evaluating bones and dense tissues, ultrasound excels at visualizing soft tissue organs and fluid-filled structures. At East Meadow Veterinary Center, we use diagnostic ultrasonography to evaluate:
- Abdominal organs — including the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, intestines, and pancreas
- The heart (echocardiography) — assessing heart size, wall motion, valve function, and the presence of fluid around the heart
- Masses or abnormal fluid — identifying the location, size, and characteristics of growths or fluid accumulations within the body cavity
- Pregnancy confirmation — ultrasonography can be used to confirm pregnancy and assess fetal viability
When is Imaging Recommended?
Imaging is an essential part of the diagnostic process for many conditions. Your veterinarian may recommend X-rays or ultrasound when your pet is experiencing:
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of abdominal discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss or a palpable mass in the abdomen
- Difficulty breathing or suspected heart disease
- Trauma such as being hit by a vehicle or a fall
- Urinary symptoms that may suggest bladder stones or kidney disease
- Swelling, limping, or suspected bone or joint abnormalities
- Pre-surgical planning or post-surgical monitoring
If your pet has been showing signs of illness or your veterinarian has recommended imaging as part of a diagnostic workup, East Meadow Veterinary Center is equipped to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment — we are here to provide fast, accurate imaging so your pet can get the answers and care they need as quickly as possible.
