Diagnostic Ultrasound

We use our ultrasound machine as a diagnostic tool to look for problems in your pet’s abdomen and chest. We can assess the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, stomach, heart and intestinal tract. The procedure is non-invasive and rarely requires sedation, so it is very safe for your pet.

What is an ultrasound?

Ultrasound examination, is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows internal body structures to be seen by recording echoes or reflections of ultrasonic waves. Unlike x-rays, which are potentially dangerous, ultrasound waves are considered to be safe.

Ultrasound equipment directs a narrow beam of high frequency sound waves into the area of interest. The sound waves may be transmitted through, reflected or absorbed by the tissues that they encounter.

The ultrasound waves that are reflected will return as “echoes” to the probe, and are converted into an image that is displayed on the monitor, giving a 2-dimensional “picture” of the tissues under examination.

The technique is invaluable for the examination of internal organs and was first used in veterinary medicine for pregnancy diagnosis. However, the technique is also extremely useful in evaluating heart conditions and identifying changes in abdominal organs. Ultrasonography is also very useful in the diagnosis of cysts and tumors.

When will I know the results of the examination?

Since an ultrasound study is performed in real time, the results of what is seen are known immediately. In some cases, the ultrasound images may be sent to a veterinary radiologist for further consultation. When this occurs, the final report may not be available for a few days.

What Does an Abdominal Ultrasound Reveal?

Abdominal ultrasound helps in the evaluation of abdominal organs including the liver, spleen, stomach, intestines, kidneys, bladder, uterus and prostate gland. This test can be extremely useful for detecting changes in the shape, size, tissue density, internal structure, and position of organs. The exam also can identify most abdominal masses or tumors, abdominal fluid, and abnormal lymph nodes. Frequently abnormal tissue or fluid is sampled with a needle or biopsy instrument using the guidance of the ultrasound exam.

Food/Prescription Refill Order

Please give us up to 24 hours to respond to your request. Medication
refills are subject to doctor approval. We will contact you when your
refill is ready for pick-up.

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

7:30 a.m.

6:00 p.m

Tuesday:

7:30 a.m.

6:00 p.m

Wednesday:

7:30 a.m.

6:00 p.m

Thursday:

7:30 a.m.

6:00 p.m

Friday:

7:30 a.m.

6:00 p.m

Saturday:

8:00 a.m.

12:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Location

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Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

  • "Dr. Kirby has always gone above and beyond for the care of our family's pets for several years."
    John D. / San Antonio, TX

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