Ultrasound is the preferred method for visualizing soft tissue. Diagnostic ultrasound can be used to visualize various parts of the anatomy including tissue, organs, glands, the abdomen and even suspicious growths, cysts and tumors. Diagnostic ultrasound is a very safe, reliable and cheap way to observe various organs of the body.

An ultrasound transducer emits very high frequency sound waves into the animal's body and creates measurements
as the waves bounce back. Specialized computer software interprets the pattern of the sound waves reflection and creates a still picture or a moving image on a monitor. Ultrasound is painless and requires no chemicals, radiation, or entry into the body. It is safe to use on delicate tissue, the spinal cord, brain, heart and even developing fetuses.

The ultrasound can be used to diagnose illnesses such as portosystemic shunts, abdominal masses, abdominal foreign bodies, pancreatitis, and enlarged adrenal glands. Ultrasound allows for tissue collection for biopsy by allowing the doctor to visualize an area within the abdomen without the need for surgery. This sample can then be submitted to a laboratory for evaluation. The diagnosis will then dictate the course of medical treatment recommended. Sometimes, however, surgery is recommended based on the ultrasound findings. The use of ultrasound coupled with surgery or medical intervention ensures your pet receives the best care.

Often, pets with suspected or confirmed heart problems are referred to PBVS for specialized cardiac care. Because a compete evaluation of a pet's heart structure and function is necessary to determine a thorough treatment plan, we use a state-of-the-art Philips IU22 ultrasound machine. This advanced equipment has the ability to simultaneously evaluate ECG, echocardiography and Doppler flow data, providing a maximum amount of critical information