Information for owners
CT scanning is fast becoming the norm in human medical facilities often as the preferred imaging technique, used in preference in many cases to conventional X-rays. People are also becoming familiar with the availability and concepts of this system either through personal experience or via the media and the demand for it’s use is increasing.
What is a CT scanner?
A CT (computerised tomography) scanner is a special kind of X-ray machine. Instead of sending out a single X-ray through your body as with ordinary X-rays producing a flat image, several beams are sent simultaneously from different angles. The resulting images can be reconstructed using special computer software allowing a 360° view of the part of the body that has been scanned producing 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional images. These images are then used to help us achieve a diagnosis. Much more information is obtained from a CT scan than can be obtained from normal X-rays.
Is CT dangerous?
There are no known side effects or dangers connected with CT. The scan is not painful and animals cannot feel the scan. As we have to sedate or anaesthetise animals to perform the scan there are certain risks associated with this but your vet will perform a full examination of your pet prior to minimise these risks.
Referring for CT scanning
You can refer your own patients for imaging only. All images will be sent for assessment to an RCVS specialist and a copy of the images will be sent to you along with a comprehensive report. We will not discuss diagnosis or treatment options with the owner such that you retain control of the case. We will perform an initial examination to assess suitability for anaesthesia only. A referral form should be completed to guide us to the area you require scanning. In order to provide a comprehensive report we would also require a full clinical history relevant to the current condition.
If you have a case you feel will benefit from advanced imaging and wish to discuss prior to referral please email details of the case to reception@seymourvets.co.uk or telephone 01803 866283.
