Does your dog need to undergo an MRI scan?

Posted by VeterinaryClinic on February 21st, 2020

Yes, then here’s everything you should know about MRI for pets. 

Today, many medical advances for humans have made their way to veterinary medical facilities, and MRI is one such diagnostic examination that your pet may surely benefit from. 

MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging- it is basically a method of getting detailed images of tissues inside the body, which is done with the use of very powerful radio and magnetic waves. The images produced by MRI scans are much more detailed as compared to what can be made with ultrasound or x-ray. MRI for pets is necessary as this diagnostic is able to produce images that slice through the body of your pet, allowing deep visualization of areas basically within the spine and skull that is really not possible with any other form of imaging. 

Worried if MRI is safe your pet or not? Don’t worry, the process is absolutely safe

As compared to other scans such as a CAT scan that mainly involves taking several x-ray slices through the entire body, there is no radiation involved in an MRI scan, and this is what makes the procedure safe. MRI scan uses a very powerful magnet or radio waves to align the protons in the water molecules of the animals in the same direction as that of the magnetic field. The scan machine then gives out a descriptive radiofrequency (RF) pulse that eliminates the protons out of the particular alignment. Once the RF pulse ends, the protons then return back to the alignment with the magnet, thereby giving off an energy that is evaluated by the coil or receiver that is placed around your pet. And finally, the signal is processed by a machine, most probably a computer to give out a detailed image of the body of your pet. 

What happens after an MRI? Does the pet feel sick?

Once an MRI scan is successfully completed, the intravenous catheter will be removed and a pressure bandage will be put on the pet’s leg to prevent any type of bleeding in the area. You must remember to remove the bandage after one hour. 

On the other hand, if you feel your pet is quiet after the exam then don’t think it’s something serious- it is normal for pets to be quiet after general anesthesia. Once you are back home, give small amounts of water to your pet followed by a quick yet light meal. Some pets may also experience cough for a few days following the general anesthesia. Keep in mind that under anesthesia, animals behave unpredictably for about 12 to 36 hours, however, if you notice any of the unusual behaviors or observe any other health-related concerns consult your veterinary doctor immediately and take quick actions. Also, bear in mind that animals may also bite if startled, so be careful during that time and keep your children away from pets. 

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VeterinaryClinic
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