Computer Tomography (CT scanning)
CT (computed tomography) is a type of x-ray imaging that creates high resolution, contrast enhanced, three dimensional images of your pets internal anatomy. Multiple, two-dimensional image sections are digitally processed to generate the final detailed three dimensional view that can then be manipulated to focus on the organ or tissue being investigated. CT scans are useful to diagnose and precisely pinpoint the size and location of a lesion not possible with traditional radiographs. This is critical for proper surgical approaches and in radiation planning. It is also useful to determine how advanced a disease process may be and to asses responses to treatment.
The procedure itself takes under an hour. However to prevent motion artifact, pets must be placed under short term anesthesia. Therefore, please fast them from food beginning 12 hours prior to testing. Depending on the needs of you pet this test can be performed on an outpatient basis or while they are hospitalized.
