CT (computerized tomography) is a technique that uses x-rays and computers to produce three-dimensional images of the body. Unlike traditional x-rays which highlight dense body parts, such as bone, CT also provides detailed views of the body’s soft tissues. While conventional x-rays provide flat two-dimensional images, CT images depict a cross-section of the body.
A pet undergoing a CT scan rests on a movable table that passes through the center of a donut-shaped scanner. By moving the pet within the scanner, doctors can obtain a series of parallel images called slices. We analyze this series of slices to understand the three-dimensional structure of the body. Occasionally, we will give an injection of a substance called a contrast agent to enhance the difference between tissues.
Within seconds of obtaining the images, they can be viewed at any computer station in the hospital. These images are then transferred to a group of board-certified radiologists who provide us with an expert opinion on our findings.
The procedure may or may not be performed on the initial day of your consultation, depending on whether or not additional tests are recommended prior to the procedure. We recommend that you do not feed your pet after 10pm the night before the appointment in case anesthesia or sedation is required. Water can be given up until the time of the appointment.
