Echocardiography
Echocardiography is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses ultrasound waves to visualize the heart and its blood flow. In veterinary cardiology, echocardiography is a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring various heart conditions in animals.
During an echocardiogram, a member of our talented veterinary staff will use an ultrasound machine to produce detailed images of the heart and surrounding blood vessels. This allows them to assess the size, shape, and function of the heart, as well as the flow of blood through the chambers and valves.
Echocardiography can be used to diagnose a wide range of heart conditions in pets, including:
- Congenital heart defects: Echocardiography can be used to diagnose congenital heart defects, which are abnormalities in the structure of the heart that are present from birth.
- Valvular disease: Echocardiography can detect problems with the heart’s valves, such as stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage), which can lead to abnormal blood flow and heart failure.
- Cardiomyopathy: Echocardiography can diagnose and monitor cardiomyopathy, which is a disease of the heart muscle that can lead to weakened heart function and heart failure.
- Pericardial disease: Echocardiography can detect pericardial effusion, which is the accumulation of fluid around the heart that can cause compression and impair heart function.
- Tumors: Echocardiography can help identify the presence and location of tumors in the heart or surrounding blood vessels.
Overall, echocardiography is a valuable diagnostic tool in veterinary heart care, allowing our veterinarians to diagnose and monitor heart conditions in pets. With early detection and appropriate treatment, many heart conditions can be effectively managed to improve the quality and length of life for affected pets.
Request your Echocardiography Appointment Today!
If you or your veterinarian are considering an echocardiogram for your pet, please contact us at 920-560-3374 to schedule a consultation with your Health Veterinary Imaging veterinarian.
