Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI 1.5 Tesla)

MRI, also known as Magnetic Resonance Imaging or nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, is a radiation-free examination method. During the painless procedure, three-dimensional images are created using a layer-by-layer approach. MRI has been used as a standard diagnostic tool in human medicine for decades and has increasingly found its place in veterinary medicine in recent years.

The examination is employed to visualize the structure and function of tissues and organs within the body. MRI works with magnetic and electrical fields to reveal contrasts between different tissues and organs.

To differentiate similar tissues, contrast agents are used in MRI, which are administered intravenously. These contrast agents are completely excreted from the body through urine.

Due to its high level of detail, MRI can display possible pathological changes. The examination lasts between 45 and 60 minutes. To ensure high image quality, animals are placed under anesthesia, as it is crucial for the animal to remain still during the procedure. Ear protection, such as earplugs or headphones, is used to protect the animal’s hearing. Our MRI, the Altea from Siemens Healthineers, is a high-field MRI with 1.5 Tesla, making it one of the latest generations of MRI scanners.

MRI is frequently used for:

• Brain/head
• Spinal cord
• Spine
• Neck
• Joints (e.g., knee, shoulder, hip)
• Soft tissues and abdominal organs
• Blood vessels
• Heart

Computed Tomography (CT)

Our CT, or Computed Tomography scanner, is a Dual Energy scanner featuring the latest detector technology. This allows for a reduction in radiation dose without compromising image quality. While your pet lies on the examination table, an X-ray tube rotates around the table, producing cross-sectional images from inside the animal. Thanks to the 128-slice detector, the scanning time is kept to a minimum. Since it is important for the pet to remain still during this short time, it will be sedated or anesthetized. The CT examination is completely painless.

The technology relies on measuring the indirect attenuation of X-rays by the body. This measured attenuation profile is computed and reconstructed. The resulting image slices are assembled to create grayscale images, which can also be presented as 3D images depending on the reconstruction.

Contrast agents are also used in CT, which are administered intravenously. These iodine-based contrast agents are expelled from the body naturally after a short time. The contrast agents enhance soft tissue contrast, aiding in more precise differentiation of tissues within the body.

CT is frequently used for:

• Bones
• Lungs
• Brain/Head
• Spine
• Joints
• Abdominal organs
• Blood vessels
• Heart

Digital radiography

In digital radiography, X-rays are used to capture images of bones, lungs, or the abdominal cavity. The radiation passing through the body is attenuated to different degrees by various tissues, resulting in the familiar black-and-white images.

Digital radiographs involve less radiation exposure compared to conventional methods and can be easily processed and adjusted afterward.

The X-ray procedure is painless, but it may be necessary for your pet to be sedated or, in some cases, anesthetized for specialized imaging.

Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy, or also known as fluoroscopy, is used when real-time visualization of dynamic processes, such as swallowing studies, is required. It allows for the observation of contrast medium flows or organ movements. A camera captures a series of images to create a kind of continuous film. Single images can also be taken for intraoperative control.

The mobile C-arm is particularly useful during surgery, for example, in catheter-assisted pacemaker implantations, vascular imaging, or implant inspections.

Like all other equipment in our facility, the Cios Flow is state-of-the-art.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound waves, emitted by a probe, create images. The probe receives reflections from different depths within the body. The computer calculates a two-dimensional image of the body’s interior based on the time difference between the transmitted and received sound waves.

Ultrasound is particularly suitable for examining soft tissues of the neck, skin, thyroid, internal organs, blood vessels, and certain joints. Ultrasound-guided punctures are also possible. The various probes available allow for a comprehensive range of examinations.

The procedure does not involve X-ray radiation and is also pain-free.

Dr. Anna Adrian

Chief Physician Diagnostic Imaging
MRCVS MS DACVR
American Specialist in Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging
RCVS recognised Specialist in Diagnostic Imaging

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need assistance. We are happy to help you. 

e-Mail: info@frontier.vet
phone: +49 (0) 89 904 29 56-0