Here at AREC, we’re excited to again have a CT machine in-house when we soon move into our new building – and we’ve upgraded to a new and advanced, state-of-the-art, high resolution CT scanner. Having such easy access 24/7 to advanced diagnostic imaging through a CT means better outcomes for our patients – and that’s what we’re all about.
A CT allows vets to see beyond what X-rays or ultrasounds can show. They’re especially useful for complex areas like the skull, spine, chest and joints. (Check out our guide to what a CT shows vs an MRI.)
Our emergency clinical team can access rapid imaging to help in trauma situations, such as road accidents or severe injuries. It’s a critical piece of equipment to help provide a quick and comprehensive view to guide urgent treatment.
However, it’s our surgical team that is most eager to have access to such imagery. A CT helps our surgeon with diagnosis, planning and mapping out procedures with precision before making an incision.
CT imaging helps identify the size, shape and location of tumours, fractures or foreign objects. It can help reduce risks during surgery and can significantly shorten operating times.
It also allows for early and accurate detection of subtle changes, small lesions or hidden abnormalities. Pets can be diagnosed with better clarity for cancers, nasal disease, spinal cord compression and dental diseases.
Being able to show a 3D image to an owner also helps our surgeons, vets and nurses explain a pet’s condition with greater ease – helping owners make more informed decisions about treatment options.
Having access to CT puts our veterinary team on par with human medicine in terms of diagnostic capability. We’re thrilled to be able to offer this service to pet owners and referring vets. It strengthens our commitment to high-quality care for every pet in our region.
case studies: dr tammy at work
Dr Tammy removes an oral bone tumour
A 7yo Border Collie was seen because she had developed very bad breath and was drooling from the right side of her mouth. She seemed to have difficulty eating and did not want to play with her toys. Examination identified a mass growing around the teeth on the right side of her lower jaw.
The surgical team recommended a CT scan in addition to a biopsy of the mass. Within minutes, the CT scan gave a full 3D view of the dog’s head, chest and abdomen. It showed not only the extent of the mass, but also that there was no evidence that the tumour had spread to the local lymph nodes, lungs, liver or other abdominal organs.
Because the CT showed the exact size and location of the tumour, Dr Tammy could plan the operation with precision and avoid damaging critical surrounding structures. The owners were relieved to have answers, and they could see the scan images themselves, which made it easier to understand the diagnosis and treatment plan.
The surgery went smoothly, and the Border Collie recovered well. She was soon happily playing with her toys and eating with enthusiasm again.
Rapid answers to find a foreign body
A young Irish Wolfhound was rushed in after he was seen to swallow a whole wooden BBQ skewer at the family party and was in significant abdominal pain. Sharp straight skewers and sticks can penetrate anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, including the back of the mouth, the oesophagus or the stomach, with the potential to cause significant injury to the adjacent tissues, organs and major blood vessels.
A CT scan was recommended to obtain a definitive answer ASAP. The skewer was found to be penetrating through the caudal oesophagus, the diaphragm and the liver, and into the stomach. Because of this information Dr Tammy and the surgical team could act quickly and confidently. The precise imaging meant the team knew exactly where to operate and could remove the stick with minimal complications.
The Irish Wolfhound made a full recovery, but BBQ skewers are no longer served at family parties!
