Large Animal Ultrasound

Dr. Dave Schmitz, DVM, Diplomate, ACVIM, Associate Professor
Dr. M Keith Chaffin, DVM, MS, Diplomate, ACVIM, Professor
Dr. Tracy Norman, VMD, Diplomate, ACVIM, Clinical Assistant Professor
Heather Quiram, BS, LVT

Ultrasound is a highly sensitive, non-invasive tool used to image nearly all soft tissue structures of the body.  It uses high frequency sound waves to create a moving digital image of the inside of internal organs.  Ultrasound and radiology are complementary to one another using very different technologies.  The Large Animal Ultrasound Service offers advanced, in- and outpatient diagnostic imaging with results available immediately. 

Ultrasound can be utilized to evaluate multiple organ systems and to search for abnormalities associated with various disease processes.  It is used to visualize the tendons and ligaments of the lower leg in the lame equine athlete as well as to characterize a heart murmur in a newborn calf.  Ultrasound can help determine whether a mass can safely be surgically removed and it can offer answers to why your horse is exhibiting abdominal pain (colic).

Ultrasound is a safe, rapid and non-invasive way to gather more information to piece together the puzzle of your animal's health and treatment.