Veterinary medicine is adapting to rapid advances in technology. In many ways, veterinarians can now provide care to animals once available only to humans. The major force behind these changes is the increase of advanced training in veterinary medicine, and increased demand for higher standards of care by pet owners for their special family members. As in people, advanced diagnostic imaging technology in veterinary medicine is often required for confirmation or diagnosis of certain diseases, and before specific treatments or delicate procedures can be recommended. Computed tomography (CT or CAT) scans are now performed more routinely in animals. Veterinary surgeons and radiologists are trained to interpret CT scans in animals. The reasons that this advanced technology is not more available are due to the costs of the equipment and the limited number of veterinarians qualified to interpret the images. This technology is now available for your client's pet. Associated tests can be performed simultaneously and recommended tests or procedures can be performed following the CT scan thus avoiding additional anesthetic episodes. Because a CT scan is a more sophisticated type of X-ray, providing three dimensional viewing of the body, this imaging technique may be recommended routinely for diagnosing certain diseases, or as an advanced procedure in difficult to diagnose cases. Common areas requiring advanced imaging include, but are not limited to, the head (nose, sinuses, orbits containing the eyes, brain, middle ear), chest (lungs, esophagus, heart), abdomen (stomach, intestines, kidneys, liver, spleen, urinary bladder, adrenal glands), spine, bones, and joints. Once trained technicians perform the CT scan, a board certified veterinary surgeon or radiologist will review and interpret the images. As opposed to human radiology, the cost of the anesthesia, CT scan, and the interpretation is all inclusive so that more pet owners can elect such advanced testing, and provide the best possible care for their family member. You will be advised of the diagnosis so that any invasive test, surgery, or treatment can be performed. You may refer your client to a veterinary specialist for the indicated treatment.

Today’s rapidly evolving technologies are being embraced both by the medical professions as well as the general public. One of the most useful applications of computer and Internet technology is in the area of tele-imaging. Combining the exceptional level of client service that exists in veterinary practices with the rapid interpretation of images by a specialist demonstrates a high degree of dedication to providing the most advanced level of care for your patients. This value-added service is utilized within our practice network. Tele-imaging benefits patients by a more rapid and efffective diagnosis, imrpoves medical care, and helps clients save time and money. Consultation between specialists within our network can provide for professional stimulation. Ultimately the patient benefits, the practitioner provides higher client satisfaction, and the specialist gains professional satisfaction in providing assistance. Veterinary Specialists of the Southeast has developed a tele-imaging network providing the latest technology in tele-imaging. Our advanced scanning system utilizes software with proprietary digital compression that transmits images, between our offices, over the Internet within seconds. These images can be enhanced, magnified and manipulated to aid in the interpretation, and even archived for future reference. This technology will also allow transmission of CT scans, MRI studies and ultrasound, as technology advances. Additionally, the imaging system will provide specialists within our network the ability to confer about the patients’ problem, extending service beyond image interpretation. We are committed to increasing the quality of services provided by your hospital are confident of client compliance upon your recommendation for a referral.