Ultrasonography is an imaging technique that allows us to see internal anatomical structure in high detail. We can image internal organs from many angles and magnify them if desired; including the liver, kidneys, spleen, stomach, etc. We look for abnormalities in the abdomen including masses, lesions, nodules, possible tumors, and shunts among other things. We can analyze blood flow within any organ or blood vessel in the abdomen or elsewhere in the body. Less common, but just as easily accomplished, we can image dermal and sub-dermal masses, the thyroid gland, the trachea, ...etc. Perhaps more familiar to most people, we perform pregnancy ultrasounds on cats and dogs just as this technology is used on pregnant women in gynecological examinations.

Quite frequently, when we observe an abnormality using ultrasonography, we can collect biopsy samples through fine aspiration of the anomaly. This method is the least invasive of biopsy sampling methods and can produce diagnostic results to aid us in recommending an appropriate therapy to best help you and your pet. Other biopsy methods can be recommended if appropriate.

Fluid in the abdomen or in the thorax reveals itself quite readily with ultrasonography. Depending upon the location and severity of the fluid, it may be possible to remove some or all of the fluid by "tapping" the applicable body cavity. The ultrasound machine allows us to accurately monitor the progress of fluid drainage and biopsy specimen collection in real time. We also use this method to safely and quickly obtain sterile urine samples.