Radiology

A veterinary radiologist is a veterinarian who has received at least three years of additional schooling in the field of diagnostic radiology.  During this training, the radiologist learns to perform special procedures and interpret studies that involve imaging with radiographs, contrast materials, ultrasound, fluoroscopy, nuclear medicine, Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).  This training includes imaging of many animal species, including not only dogs and cats, but horses, cows, birds, ferrets and reptiles.  After completing this training, the individual then becomes certified by the American College of Veterinary Radiology by passing a two part examination (written and oral examination).  At our practice, we currently use ultrasound, radiographs, fluoroscopy and contrast studies to obtain diagnostic images, and we soon hope to use MRI as well. 

The veterinary radiologist is considered a valuable asset to most specialty practices because these individuals have been trained to recognize disease processes and are able to relate these changes to what is currently making the patient sick.  Radiologists then sort out the changes found into those that are considered incidental and those that are considered relevant.  Imaging, in combination with the history provided from symptoms, physical exam and laboratory tests, allows us to better localize the problem and reach a diagnosis.  Sometimes a radiologist will also do special procedures, such as an ultrasound guided aspirate or biopsy.  The radiologist works as part of a team to help reach a specific diagnosis so that our other specialists (the internist, cardiologist or surgeon) will then best know how to treat the patient.

Our radiologist is also available to consult with our primary care veterinarians in the greater Capital District.  Often radiographs are taken at a primary care veterinary facility and in some cases, a veterinarian may request assistance in interpretation of the films.  If a case is particularly complicated or the diagnosis is unclear, a radiologist can help by suggesting additional radiographs, blood tests or imaging procedures that can be performed to help reach a diagnosis.  In some cases, a radiologist may recommend that the patient be referred to a specialist for more testing or procedures.