Diagnostic imaging allows us to examine internal structures that cannot be fully evaluated through physical examination or laboratory testing alone. Radiographs and ultrasound provide different types of information, and the most appropriate study depends on the patient’s symptoms, examination findings, and medical history.
At Jog Lantana Animal Clinic, imaging is used as part of a complete diagnostic process. Dr. Miriam Delbene reviews the images and specialist reports together with your pet’s laboratory results, physical examination, previous findings, and response to treatment.
Digital Radiographs
Radiographs, commonly called X-rays, use a brief exposure to radiation to create images of the body. They are especially useful for evaluating bones and areas containing air or significant differences in tissue density.
Depending on the medical concern, radiographs may help evaluate:
- The heart and lungs
- The abdomen and gastrointestinal tract
- The urinary system and certain types of bladder or urinary stones
- Bones, joints, and the spine
- Fractures, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal changes
- Changes in organ size or position
- Foreign material or intestinal obstruction
- Certain masses, fluid accumulation, or patterns associated with disease
Radiographs do not identify every condition, and an abnormal appearance does not always establish a final diagnosis. Additional views, laboratory testing, ultrasound, follow-up images, or specialist interpretation may be recommended.
Preparing for Radiographs
Many radiographs can be obtained while the patient is awake. However, positioning must be accurate for the images to be useful. Sedation may be recommended when a pet is painful, anxious, unable to remain still, or requires a position that would otherwise be uncomfortable.
Our team will explain whether fasting, sedation, or another preparation is needed based on the type of study and your pet’s condition.
Scheduled Mobile Ultrasound Services at JLAC
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of internal organs and soft tissues. Unlike radiographs, it can provide detailed information about the internal appearance, movement, and structure of many organs.
Ultrasound examinations at JLAC are performed by appointment by Dr. Monti of Vision Veterinary Imaging. Because this is a scheduled mobile imaging service, availability must be coordinated in advance with our team.
Depending on the study, ultrasound may help evaluate:
- Liver and gallbladder
- Spleen
- Kidneys and adrenal glands
- Urinary bladder
- Stomach and intestinal tract
- Pancreas
- Lymph nodes
- Abdominal masses, fluid, or other structural changes
- The heart when an echocardiogram is medically indicated
Ultrasound can help identify abnormalities, guide decisions about additional testing, and sometimes assist with sample collection. It cannot determine the exact nature of every mass or abnormal tissue, and cytology, biopsy, laboratory testing, surgery, or follow-up imaging may still be needed.
Specialist Interpretation and Reporting
After the scheduled imaging examination, the images and relevant clinical information are submitted for professional interpretation. Depending on the type of study, JLAC receives a written report from an internist or cardiologist.
The report is not always available immediately. Once it has been received and reviewed, Dr. Delbene considers the specialist’s findings together with the complete clinical picture and discusses the recommended next steps with you.
These next steps may include:
- Monitoring or repeat imaging
- Additional blood, urine, or other laboratory testing
- Medication or dietary treatment
- Ultrasound-guided sampling or another diagnostic procedure
- Surgery
- Referral to a specialist or emergency facility when appropriate
Ultrasound Appointments and Preparation
Preparation requirements vary according to the type of ultrasound. Fasting, allowing the urinary bladder to remain full, temporarily adjusting medication, or clipping hair from the area being examined may be necessary.
Our team will provide specific instructions when the appointment is scheduled. Please do not withhold medication unless Dr. Delbene or our medical team instructs you to do so.
Imaging with a Clear Clinical Purpose
We recommend imaging when it is expected to answer a meaningful medical question or guide a treatment decision. We will explain why the study is being recommended, what it may show, its limitations, and how the findings may influence your pet’s care.
At JLAC, technology supports a personal approach to medicine. Images and reports are interpreted in the context of the individual patient, and families are included in the discussion of results, available options, and next steps.
Request a Diagnostic Imaging Evaluation
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