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How do I know if a ultrasound will be of benefit to my pet?  Please check the Indications List for the most common medical problems which an echocardiogram or abdominal sonogram can help with.  If your specific situation is not covered, you may Post a Question  to us at The Animal Ultrasound Clinic.

May I be present during the ultrasound procedure? Yes, you may be present during the ultrasound.   We will explain our findings and help you understand the significance of the abnormalities present.

What is the difference between an echocardiogram and an electrocardiogram? An electrocardiogram records the electrical activity as a set of repeating spikes on a strip of paper.  In an echocardiogram, the internal anatomy of the heart is viewed in real time on a TV monitor. 

How long does the scan take?  Most echocardiograms and abdominal sonograms are completed in approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Is sedation or anesthesia needed?  No.  We find sedation necessary very rarely, less than 0.1% of the cases.  Light gas anesthesia (Isofluorane) is used for the majority of the ultrasound-guided biopsy procedures.  The duration of this procedure is approximately 5 to 10 minutes.

What does an ultrasound-guided biopsy entail?  The pet is placed under light anesthesia for approximately 5 to 10 minutes.  The biopsy is performed while the structure to be biopsied and the biopsy needle are simultaneously visualized in the monitor.  Activation of the color flow Doppler system allows for visualization and thus avoidance of nearby blood vessels.  It is a very precise procedure and quite safe.

Is ultrasound harmful?  No.  It is believed to be completely safe in both humans and animals, fetuses and adults.  It is not an x-ray technology and no radiation is used. 

Should I fast my pet prior to an ultrasound? It is not necessary to fast your pet unless a biopsy may be performed. For a routine abdominal scan, a light morning meal is appropriate.

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