Advanced Veterinary Radiology in Annapolis, MD
Some pets have complex medical conditions requiring more detailed and in-depth diagnostic imaging capabilities. Compass Veterinary Neurology & Imaging in Annapolis, MD houses advanced imaging equipment for these very cases! Our imaging tools include a GE 1.5T MRI scanner and a Fujifilm Supria Plus 32-slice helical Computed Tomography (CT) scanner. Unlike commonplace imaging tools, our MRI and CT scanners are more powerful and capable of producing higher-quality images of important areas of the body. For pets with potentially serious health conditions, our advanced imaging equipment can provide a turning point in their treatment.
Schedule a consultation today or refer a patient for treatment.
For referring vets: If you suspect brain or spinal cord disease in your patient, we recommend consulting with a neurologist before requesting outpatient imaging.
For referring vets: If you suspect brain or spinal cord disease in your patient, we recommend consulting with a neurologist before requesting outpatient imaging.
What is an MRI Scan?
MRI stands for “magnetic resonance imaging.” The procedure involves using a strong magnetic field to generate high-resolution images of the soft tissues in the body. MRI is the gold standard diagnostic procedure for imaging soft tissues encased in bone, such as the central nervous system and certain joints. This detailed imaging technique helps our veterinarians diagnose conditions that cannot be seen using conventional radiography, and formalize appropriate treatment plans for our patients.
We typically place dogs and cats under anesthesia for MRI procedures, as the magnet within the machinery produces loud noises that can be stressful for pets. MRI scans generally require about an hour of anesthesia. At CVNI, all imaging-related anesthesia is overseen by a qualified veterinarian with extensive experience in veterinary anesthesia to ensure maximum safety for every pet.
About Our CT Technology
A CT scan is a procedure that produces and uses multiple X-ray images, called “slices,” to generate a detailed, cross-sectional image of a certain area of the body. Our CT unit allows for 3D reconstruction of the area, aiding in both diagnosing and planning treatment. The sensitivity of CT is approximately 10 times higher than conventional radiography; therefore, CT scans can often detect abnormalities sooner and with more accuracy than radiographs.
Our CT scanner allows for rapid assessment scans that minimize anesthesia time and risk, and in some cases, can be performed under light sedation. Scans are often completed in just a few minutes, resulting in decreased risk to the patient and less cost to the client.
What are the Main Differences Between Veterinary MRI and CT Scans?
MRI and CT scans are both extremely useful in diagnosing underlying health problems, but they have some notable differences.
CT: The effective radiation dose from CT ranges from 2 to 10 mSv, which is about the same as the average person receives from background radiation in 3 to 5 years.
MRI: No radiation exposure. MRI machines do not emit ionizing radiation.
CT: Typically 10-20 minutes. Some studies can be done under sedation.
MRI: Typically 40-60 minutes. Due to the loud noises during the study, anesthesia is required.
CT: CT can pose the risk of irradiation. It’s painless and non-invasive.
MRI: No biological hazards have been reported with MRI usage.
CT: Suited for bone injuries, nasal/ear issues, thoracic and abdominal imaging, detection of metastatic disease, and soft tissue structures outside the central nervous system.
MRI: Suited for soft tissue evaluation, particularly tissues surrounded by bone such as the spinal cord, brain, ligaments, and tendons within joints.