Animal Hospital of Antioch

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Services : Ultrasonography

Ultrasonography    



We are proud to offer the best in diagnostic ultrasonography at Animal Hospital.  We have state of the art equipment and over 14 years of experience.  Doctor Schlange has had a focus on Abdominal and Cardiac Ultrasounds since graduating from U.C. Davis in 1993.  He is available pretty much 7 days a week at Animal Hospital and travels to other clinics in the East Bay on an appointment bases. 


Ultrasounds provide a safe, noninvasive means to effectively examine internal organs and tissues

Ultrasound vs X-rays

Ultrasounds provide the perfect compliment to X-rays. X-rays are great for distinguishing between bone, gas, soft tissue, and fat. But, they can not detect differences in tissue densities, see through fluid, or detect irregularities in tissue structures. In contrast, ultrasounds are ideal for examining tissue architecture, changes in tissue densities, and seeing through fluid.

These facts make the combination of X-rays and diagnostic ultrasound ideal. Where one is weak the other is strong, providing the most complete clinical picture possible.

Abdomen

Ultrasound imaging enables non-invasive examination of the liver, spleen, kidneys, pancreas, bladder, prostate, stomach wall, bowel loops, adrenals, mesenteric/sublumbar lymphnodes, and mass lesions.

Echocardiology            

2D and M-mode examination of the heart provide comprehensive information of chamber sizes, valve structure, wall thickness, contractility, and stenotic lesions.  The type of heart disease can be determined and the best choices for medication can be used.  With proper care many animals with heart disease will live for years. 

Thoracic Cavity

The thoracic cavity can be examined for mass lesions, hernias, and effusions. Thoracocentesis, aspiration of mass lesions and draining pericardial effusions can be done with less risk.

External Masses

External masses can be examined to evaluate lesion boundaries, tissue densities, and blood supply. Aspiration cytology and biopsies can be taken from the suspect lesions avoiding blood vessels.

Biopsies

Ultrasounds make it possible to visualize the exact location from which biopsy samples are taken. Organ biopsies can be obtained through small skin incisions with relatively low risk and minimal sedation or anesthesia.