Ultrasound technology is an important service at Alta Veterinary Hospital. Ultrasound is used routinely to examine the abdominal or thoracic (chest) cavities. In conjunction with traditional x-rays, ultrasound gives considerable information about important organs such as the heart, liver, spleen, kidneys, and more. We also gather information about fluid, tumors or other signs of disease in the body cavities.
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to evaluate the size, shape, and position of soft tissues. When sound waves are emitted from the transducer, they are reflected back to the ultrasound machine. The pattern of the reflected sound waves creates an image that is viewed on a screen.
Ultrasound also has a very important role in obtaining biopsy samples of organs, tumors, fluid, etc. Such samples are often required to make a definitive diagnosis of serious diseases. Ultrasound allows us to obtain such samples without surgery.
Pregnancy exams are also available which are done 30 days into the gestation period.