Veterinary Imaging in Andrews, NC
The Importance of Veterinary Imaging
When pets are injured, unwell, or showing subtle changes in behavior, imaging gives us a clearer view of their internal health. Using digital X-rays and ultrasound, our team can identify orthopedic injuries, organ abnormalities, heart conditions, and more—without the need for surgery. Andrews Veterinary Hospital is equipped with advanced X-ray and diagnostic technology that many nearby clinics lack, allowing us to deliver precise, timely results and a higher standard of care for every patient. These tools play a vital role in veterinary diagnostics, helping us make confident, informed decisions about your pet’s care.
Digital Radiology (X-rays)
Our hospital is equipped with a state-of-the-art digital radiography (DR) system, which produces detailed, high-resolution images in seconds. Unlike traditional film X-rays, digital radiology allows our veterinarians to adjust image contrast instantly, improving clarity and reducing the need for retakes—so your pet spends less time on the table and more time receiving care.
How Digital Radiology Helps Pets
We use X-rays to diagnose a wide range of conditions, including:
- Orthopedic Issues — Fractures, joint disease, hip or elbow dysplasia
- Thoracic Imaging — Heart and lung evaluation, metastatic checks
- Abdominal Imaging — Detecting foreign objects, stones, masses, and organ changes
This technology is also used in pre-surgical evaluations and post-surgical follow-ups, ensuring the best possible outcomes for your pet.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging allows our veterinarians to see not only a pet’s anatomy but also organ movement and blood flow in real time. This painless, non-invasive, radiation-free tool provides crucial information that complements X-rays and helps diagnose conditions early.
How It Works
An ultrasound probe (transducer) emits high-frequency sound waves that bounce off tissues and fluids within the body. Those echoes are converted into moving images on a screen. In most cases, sedation isn’t necessary—pets simply rest comfortably during the scan while our team gently moves the probe over the area being examined.
What Ultrasound Is Used For
Ultrasound is one of the most versatile diagnostic tools available and can be used to evaluate:
Abdominal Imaging
- Detecting masses, tumors, or abnormal organ size and texture
- Identifying bladder stones, liver or spleen changes, and kidney disease
- Locating gastrointestinal foreign bodies or blockages
Procedural Guidance
- Assisting with aspirates, biopsies, and cystocentesis (bladder taps)
- Safely guiding fluid removal procedures, such as thoracocentesis or abdominocentesis
Cardiac (Echocardiography)
- Assessing heart chamber size, valve function, and blood flow using Doppler technology
- Determining the cause of murmurs, cardiomyopathies, or heart failure risk
Emergency and Triage
- Performing FAST scans (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) to detect internal bleeding or fluid accumulation
- Rapidly assessing pericardial effusion and other urgent conditions
Reproductive Health
- Pregnancy confirmation and fetal heartbeat monitoring
- Evaluating ovarian or testicular health
Precision Diagnostics, Compassionate Care
At Andrews Veterinary Hospital, we combine advanced diagnostic imaging with a compassionate, hands-on approach to veterinary medicine. Our expertise in digital radiology and ultrasound helps us deliver timely, accurate answers for dogs and cats—whether we’re evaluating an injury, monitoring a chronic condition, or supporting preventive care. Trusted by pet families throughout Cherokee County, NC, our team is dedicated to providing clear insight and expert guidance that lead to better health outcomes and peace of mind.