Ultrasonography is the use of sound waves reflecting off of a structure to produce an image. The waves are emitted from and reabsorbed by a transducer which then transmits them back to the machine portraying the echoes as a visual picture in black and white on the screen. Different distances traveled by the sound echoes produce different shades of color.

Ultrasounds are used to visualize internal organs. The health of kidneys, function of the heart, fluid in the body cavities, and confirmation of pregnancy are all seen with ultrasound. These are only a small number of the diagnostics for which ultrasonography can be used. Some of the functions for which we use this diagnostic tool at Dakota Large Animal Clinic include pregnancy confirmation in horses and dogs (as early as 15 days in horses), evaluation of damage to tendons and ligaments in horses, visualization of fluid in the chest cavity, and visualization of structures deep within masses.

We also use this equipment extensively to follow mares through their estrous cycle for purposes of breeding, while identifying any problems with the reproductive tract in the process.

Ultrasonography is a non-invasive diagnostic tool with the capability of being used extensively in the clinical setting. Visit our clinic to see how this equipment can benefit your animal.