What is abdominal ultrasound used for?
Ultrasound is a non-invasive tool that allows us to visualize internal organs and enables vets to diagnose many different medical conditions quickly and safely. During an abdominal ultrasound, all organs within the abdomen are scanned and photos and videos are taken and then emailed to our radiologist. The radiologist interprets the images and emails a detailed report within 24 business hours.
Ultrasound is particularly useful for finding abnormalities within the abdomen that may not show up as well with an x-ray, such as fluid, masses or stones within the bladder or gallbladder. Ultrasound also allows us to safely collect samples of fluid or tissue using a needle aspirate or biopsy, which can be used to get a diagnosis.
