Diagnostic imaging is available at our Sydney and Camden Veterinary Teaching Hospitals, supported by specialist imaging teams offering outpatient and referral services.
Sydney provides a full suite of technologies including DR, ultrasound, CT, MRI, fluoroscopy supported by PACS, while Camden offers ultrasound, nuclear scintigraphy and DR. Our veterinarians work closely with imaging specialists to select the most appropriate scan, explain your options and support timely diagnosis and treatment.
Our hospitals utilise the latest in Fuji DR technology, offering both general practitioner and specialist services.
General radiography services include all routine diagnostic x-ray procedures plus fluoroscopy for swallow and respiratory studies. We also offer contrast studies including excretory urogram and other real time procedures.
DR technology has enabled us to enhance standard x-ray images using optimised radiographic algorithms. Studies have been further improved with the use of high detail and high speed detectors, depending upon the needs of examination. High detail bone imaging or fast chest radiographs can be easily obtained with DR imaging.
Orthopaedic templating for surgical planning is another advantage of digital radiography. Our surgeons can plan hip or knee pin surgery in advance of the procedure to ensure the best possible patient outcome.
The advantage of ultrasound lies in its real-time imaging ability to evaluate heart function and vessel patency, plus provide valuable measurements of organ size and function. Ultrasound is the gold standard for imaging in the areas of cardiac, abdomen, pelvis and foetal studies.
CT imaging provides the UVTHS with high resolution cross sectional imaging of brain, spine, chest, abdominal and limb examinations.
CT imaging strength lies in its ability to image quickly for chest and abdominal studies so that images are not affected by the pet’s breathing. Exquisite bone detail is easily obtained for skull, sinuses, spine or limb studies.
The digital images can be rebuilt and viewed in a 3D volume movie providing additional information to veterinarians. The CT is a high end system used worldwide for both veterinary and human imaging.
MRI strength lies in its ability to image soft-tissue structures such as the brain, eyes, pituitary gland, spinal cord, nerves, muscles, and tendons, and to differentiate normal tissue from tumours and various other disease processes.
MRI of the brain is often used to evaluate and define tumour types, infection, seizure disorders, strokes, hydrocephalus and other damage as a result of trauma. MRI of the spine is used to diagnose spinal cord tumours or syrinx, herniated disks, spinal cord compression, and cord inflammation. Knee and hip MRI can be used to investigate tendon or ligament tears, bone or muscle tumours and inflammation.
The 0.25-Tesla open MRI system is designed specifically for dogs and cats.
Fluoroscopic examinations are a specialty service offered to pets at UVTHS.
Fluoroscopy, utilising continuous x-rays akin to a movie, enables comprehensive studies such as assessing a collapsing trachea, conducting swallow studies, and supporting orthopedic surgeries.
Pets can develop intestinal obstructions after swallowing items such as socks, hair ties, bones or corn cobs. Common signs include vomiting, reduced appetite, abdominal pain or lethargy, and urgent veterinary assessment with imaging is often required, as complete blockages can be life‑threatening.
Lumps can have many causes, including abscesses, cysts, benign growths or cancerous tumours. Any new, growing or changing lump should be examined by a veterinarian, who may recommend tests such as a fine needle aspirate or biopsy.
Signs of arthritis can include stiffness, limping, difficulty rising, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, and reduced activity. Because pets often hide pain, a veterinary examination is important to confirm arthritis and discuss management options.
Occasional mild stomach upset may resolve quickly, but ongoing vomiting, diarrhoea, blood in stools, pain or lethargy requires veterinary attention. These signs can indicate underlying medical conditions that need prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Internal medicine investigations may include blood tests, urine and faecal tests, imaging such as x‑rays, ultrasounds or advanced imaging. These tests help identify the cause of illness and guide appropriate treatment.
