Veterinary Services
Pet Ultrasound at Compass Veterinary Clinic in Lake Oswego, OR
Compass Veterinary Clinic in Lake Oswego, OR, offers noninvasive and pain-free pet ultrasound for comprehensive internal organ imaging.
Pet Ultrasound in Lake Oswego, OR
At Compass Veterinary Clinic in Lake Oswego, OR, we are pleased to provide ultrasound services, a noninvasive and pain-free method for imaging internal organs, especially within the abdominal cavity and the heart. This diagnostic tool plays a crucial role in identifying pathology and disease processes in pets.
Why Opt for Pet Ultrasound?
When standard diagnostic measures such as bloodwork and X-rays fall short in pinpointing the cause of your pet’s ailment, your veterinarian may recommend ultrasound. This advanced imaging technique offers a more in-depth view of internal organs, surpassing the capabilities of traditional X-ray imaging.
Preparing for the Ultrasound
- Echocardiograms (Heart Ultrasound): For echocardiograms, there is no specific preparation required. It is advisable to administer your pet’s regular medications as directed.
- Abdominal Ultrasound: For abdominal ultrasounds, a 12-hour fasting period (unless your pet is diabetic) is recommended to enhance the imaging quality of abdominal organs. This fasting period minimizes excess gas in the stomach and intestinal tract, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of vital organs and tissues. Additionally, a mild reversible sedative is often administered to relax the patient, alleviate anxiety, and improve image quality. The relevant area is clipped, and acoustic gel is applied to facilitate the transmission of sound waves to the tissues being examined.
Understanding Sedation in Ultrasound
Mild sedation is employed during abdominal imaging to enhance your pet’s relaxation and overall image quality. While ultrasounds themselves are not painful, the application of firm pressure with the ultrasound probe in specific areas may cause mild discomfort. Sedation mitigates this discomfort, making the procedure more tolerable for your pet. Patients undergoing echocardiograms typically do not require sedation.
The Process
Regrettably, owners are not permitted to be present during the ultrasound procedure. Pets scheduled for an ultrasound are dropped off at our clinic in the morning, and they stay with us for part of the day. Depending on the schedule, examinations are prioritized based on urgency and workflow efficiency. We will notify you once the ultrasound is complete and arrange a convenient time for you to pick up your pet. Ultrasound findings are communicated to your veterinarian within 24-48 hours, who will then discuss the results and potential next steps with you.
Special Considerations for New Clients
Please be aware that we only offer ultrasounds through DVM referral or with an established client relationship. If you are a new client at Compass Veterinary Clinic, a new client wellness exam may be required before accessing ultrasound services.
Book Appointment
At Compass Veterinary Clinic, we prioritize the health and well-being of your pets through advanced diagnostic tools like ultrasound. Book appointment today to explore how our comprehensive imaging services can assist your veterinarian in providing the best care for your furry companions.