3-D image of a dog stifle, or knee
A CT scan provides detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs and may be recommended for diagnosing diseases of the brain, sinuses, spine, bones, joints, and soft tissues.
CT makes it possible to diagnose some diseases earlier and more accurately than with other imaging tools. It can also be used to more precisely define the location of a mass, allowing for less invasive surgical procedures.
Anesthesia is required for pets undergoing CT imaging. Even the best behaved pet will not stay perfectly still long enough to get good quality images! The procedure is very rapid, and many patients can complete the CT study with only sedation, rather than full anesthesia. In either case, patients are monitored during the procedure using equipment that measures respiration rate, blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels.