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Veterinary Radiology at Upstate Veterinary Specialties

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 upon successfully passing a two part examination, comprised of a written component and an oral examination.

Radiology Services for Pets Available at UVS

At our veterinary referral practice in Latham NY, our radiology department currently uses the following to obtain diagnostic images:

Ultrasound
Radiographs
Fluoroscopy
MRI
CT
Contrast studies

When combined with the patient’s medical history, a physical examination, and laboratory tests; imaging allows our radiologist to better localize the problem and reach a diagnosis. Sometimes, the radiologist will also perform special procedures, such as an ultrasound-guided aspirate or a biopsy, to help determine why symptoms are occurring and diagnose the issue.

Our veterinary radiologists are also available to consult with primary care veterinarians, located throughout New York’s greater Capital Region. Often, radiographs are taken at the patient’s 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, we can provide our professional medical opinion and may suggest additional radiographs, blood tests, or imaging procedures that can be performed to help reach a diagnosis. In some cases we may recommend that the patient be referred to an additional specialist for more testing or procedures.

Radiology at UVS

UVS currently has two part-time/in-house imaging consultants, as well as a contract with an off-site veterinary radiology service to provide real-time ultrasound interpretation for scans performed by a skilled sonographer when a radiologist is not in the facility.

If you’re a referring veterinarian seeking more information about the radiology services available for your patients at UVS, contact us today at (518) 783-3198.