Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
Capital Area Veterinary Specialists is committed to providing our patients the most advanced diagnostic tools available in veterinary medicine. Our hospital offers one of the few CT scanners in the state of Louisiana and we are happy to bring this cutting-edge technology to pet patients in Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Walker, Hammond, and Lafayette.
What is a CT scan?
Computed tomography, more commonly referred to as a CT scan or CAT scan, is simply a 3 dimensional x-ray. The CT scanner at Capital Area Veterinary Specialists is an intricately-detailed imaging system that rotates around the patient, while continually projecting a thin fan of x-rays through the body to create cross-sectional images of the body. The machine and its corresponding software allow the veterinarian to not only see the organs and skeletal structure as a whole, but also a cross section of any “slice” of the image. This CT is extremely useful for diagnosing disorders of the spine, thorax and abdomen as well as nasal cavities. Our veterinarians often choose to perform a CT scan to gain information that an x-ray or ultrasound does not provide.
My dog needs a CT scan. What can I expect to happen now?
If your dog is in need of a CT scan, and once permission is obtained from the pet owner, the veterinarian will then put your pet under general anesthesia. Anesthesia is required due to the need for absolute stillness in order to produce accurate images. Our 16 slice CT scan gives us the highest resolution images to visualize the area of concern. This procedure is very safe for your pet, and gives us the information needed to properly treat many types of diseases.
Capital Area Veterinary Specialists is pleased to offer the most advanced diagnostic equipment, coupled with experienced veterinary specialists. Our practice is centrally located for our Baton Rouge area patients at 2380 O'Neal Lane, or we can be reached by phone at 225-424-6712.