Pet Diagnostics in Charleston, SC
When the results of a pet’s wellness exam are abnormal, we usually recommend an advanced diagnostic exam. We believe in a multi-modal approach to diagnostics and are equipped with radiology, laboratory, ultrasound, tonometry, and other technology to provide your pet with the best possible diagnostic care.
Cat & Dog X-rays
Using digital radiography (X-rays), we can obtain clear and detailed internal images of our patients. These images can be viewed and evaluated from several rooms in our clinic and are used to diagnose many problems like fractures, arthritis, gastro-intestinal conditions, foreign bodies, urinary stones, and cancer. When films are taken to be evaluated by the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) for hip dysplasia and other congenital orthopedic conditions, pets are sedated to capture the best images. As part of our fear-free initiative, we also sedate pets that may be stressed or in pain.
Laboratory at West Ashley Veterinary Clinic
West Ashley Vet Clinic has a sophisticated in-house laboratory to provide an analysis of blood, serum, feces, urine, and other body fluids. We use our hematology and chemistry lab station to perform comprehensive blood panels to evaluate major cell and organ function in our critically ill patients. These panels can also be performed as pre-anesthetic blood work for surgical patients. Our in-house laboratory also enables us to sample skin and ear cells and perform fine needle aspirates of soft tissue masses for cytology.
Cat & Dog Ultrasound
Ultrasonography is a safe, non-invasive means of evaluating a pet internally by providing a two-dimensional image of the organs in real time using high-frequency sound waves. There are many cases in which an ultrasound exam would be recommended, which include vomiting, abnormal lab work, abdominal pain, and palpable masses. During an ultrasound exam, internal organs are systematically assessed. Though not necessary with every pet, there are some cases in which light sedation is required.
Tonometry
Using a Tonovet and a Tonopen machine, we’re able to perform tonometry, which is the procedure that measures intraocular (IOP) pressure. An IOP reading that’s higher than normal means glaucoma, which can damage the eye’s optic nerve and lead to vision loss. A low IOP reading could indicate intraocular inflammation (uveitis), which is also a painful condition and often requires special therapy.
Fast When It Needs to Be
The results of these tests, delivered quickly and on-site, give us the opportunity at West Ashley Vet Clinic to offer emergent care or to speed referral when appropriate. Faster therapy leads to a speedier resolution of clinical signs of illness or disease.
