At Barton Veterinary Hospital we are proud to be able to make use of our CT facilities to better assist our clients.
What is CT?
Computed tomography uses x-rays to construct highly detailed images of a patient in “slices”. These slices allow a huge amount of information to be gathered about the structure of the internal organs of a patient. The images can even be reformatted to provide 3-dimensional representations of a patient’s anatomy.
Why is CT useful?
CT overcomes many limitations of conventional imaging procedures such as x-ray and ultrasound. All body tissues can be evaluated in each image without superimposition of other parts of the anatomy. CT is used especially to evaluate the lungs e.g. for tumours, the joints for orthopaedic disease, the head including the nasal cavity, middle ear cavities and cranium, and also the spine and abdomen. The detailed images can provide a diagnosis in many cases or help guide biopsies.
Specialist Interpretation
Vets on site include a Certificate holder in Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging, overseeing the procedures and providing immediate interpretation of scans. Scans are also sent directly to a Specialist in Diagnostic Imaging for expert interpretation. Detailed reports are provided promptly to help guide treatment and allow pet owners to visualise and understand the abnormalities that are found.
Case management
Cases can be investigated thoroughly by the Barton’s Team, with the use of other imaging modalities as necessary, and patients treated in the Hospital accordingly. Barton Veterinary Hospital also offers a CT service for referring vets who wish to manage the case themselves: the patient can be scanned and discharged back to the referring vet the same day, with a detailed report provided in one to three days depending on urgency. Referrals can be arranged by contacting our Referrals Receptionist on 01227 765522.