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An animal lies motionless on the CT scanner table, while the X-ray beam is directed through it from various angles and in various directions. The computer receives information from the CT scanner sensor and interprets it by converting it into images. The sensor rotates around the table and produces new images at specific time interval, ensuring that the body is fully scanned. The images vary from white to black depending on the density of tissues. 3D images can be reconstructed to better assess the localisation of anatomic structures for diseases and pathologies. This information is highly useful for diagnosis and for planning medical and surgical treatment.

Yes, during the examination the animal is exposed to ionising radiation for a short period of time. Radiation does not accumulate in the organism. The received dose causes no risk of disease or mutations in the organism.

Compared to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a CT examination is shorter. The scan itself takes 10-20 minutes. During the examination, the animal must remain still; therefore, sedation or anaesthesia is used. Time is required to prepare the animal for the procedure and to position it correctly on the examination table. All of this requires care and responsible handling of the animal. Hence, a total of 60 minutes is scheduled for the entire procedure. After the examination, we must ensure that the animal wakes up calmly, without complications, and is able to go home without assistance.

Computed tomography is ideal to use for diagnosing head and skull conditions (ears, oral cavity, nose, upper respiratory tract); orthopaedic and bone diseases (osteoarthritis, joint diseases); certain spinal conditions; lung (respiratory system) diseases; and internal organ pathologies. CT can be safely used in animals with implants, pacemakers, or metal-containing devices, which may prevent MRI from being performed.

After a visit to a veterinarian or specialist, a referral for CT is required, completed by the veterinarian. After that, the animal’s owner schedules the CT appointment.

On the day of the examination, the animal should not be fed for 6 hours before the visit and water should not be given for 3-4 hours (depending on environmental conditions). For animals older than 8 years, blood tests are recommended. It is also advisable to inform us in advance about any chronic conditions. This is necessary to ensure the safest and most appropriate anaesthesia protocol.

Image interpretation, evaluation, and diagnosis are performed by a certified European veterinary radiologist, Dipl.ECVDI EBVS Edoardo Auriemma, together with his team of certified European veterinary radiologists. A written report is prepared in English within 3 working days.