The Importance of X-rays at the Veterinarian

Our Digital X-ray Machine

X-ray machines use electromagnetic waves that are invisible to the human eye. They are the same type of waves as light waves, only we can't see them. The X-ray machine emits the waves through the body, and then projects onto a film or digital image device, depending on the type of machine. Some of the tissues in the body are more dense than others. Bone is more dense than muscle, so it will absorb more of the X-ray radiation. When that happens, we get a picture of the inside of the body.
It's easy to imagine why a picture of the inside of the body would be beneficial to our veterinarians. So many conditions are detectable through X-ray imaging. Not only can we see fractures and arthritis, but we can visualize bladder stones, the spine, pelvis, heart and lungs, impaction of the bowels and foreign bodies.
Animals sometimes eat the craziest things. We've gotten calls here about patients eating an engagement ring, baby pacifiers, rocks, a soda cozy, and a sewing needle with the string still attached. Our doctors were able to see these things in the stomach and do what needed to be done for the patients. "They Ate What?" from Veterinary Practice News
Here at Rau Animal Hospital, we have a digital x-ray machine. This is beneficial in several ways:

• A darkroom with processing chemicals is no longer needed on premises
• The processing time is cut down from minutes (film) to seconds (digital)
• Transport of X-rays involves a CD or email, instead of a bulky set of films
• Less radiation is needed for every X-ray

All of our radiographs are sent out to a specialist for reading, after our vets look at them. This ensures a correct diagnosis of each condition, and also a second pair of eyes to catch things we may have missed. The results are quick, due to our ability to send X-rays electronically.
We love knowing we can give fast treatment for serious cases with the aid of our Digital X-ray machine. Rau's Surgical & X-ray page