Interventional Radiology: Pet Ultrasounds & MRI Scans

Surgery & Interventional Radiology

The Beecroft surgery team is headed by Dr Patrick Maguire who is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. He has more than 10 years of surgical experience and at the hospital he is supported by a full staff of interns, critical care veterinarians, and licensed veterinary technicians.

In addition, our state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging service and cutting edge rehabilitation team help our patients recover safely and return to a high quality of life through post-operative therapy and monitoring.

Interventional Radiology (IR) offers an approach to veterinary care, using imaging technologies like ultrasound to guide minimally invasive procedures. This allows specialists to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions with greater precision and less discomfort for your felines or canines.

By harnessing the power of real-time imaging, such as MRI and CT scans, IR provides targeted treatments, often reducing the need for traditional surgery and promoting faster recovery times.

At Beecroft, our dedicated team of veterinary specialists, including those trained in veterinary abdominal ultrasound, work together to provide the highest standard of care through IR, ensuring your companion receives the most advanced and compassionate treatment available.

Advanced Imaging Technologies for Veterinary Interventional Radiology

Our team of specialists may employ the following veterinary imaging technologies to visualise the inside of your pet’s body and guide minimally invasive procedures:

Fluoroscopy for Real-Time Imaging

Real-time X-ray imaging allows veterinarians to monitor the progress of a procedure and make adjustments as needed.

Ultrasound for Guided Procedures

Uses sound waves to create images of internal organs, which can be used to guide needle placement and other procedures.

Computed Tomography (CT)

Provides detailed, cross-sectional images of your pet’s anatomy, which can be used to plan complex procedures and identify abnormalities.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Offers high-resolution images of soft tissues, which can help diagnose certain conditions and plan treatment.

Endoscopy Combined with IR Techniques

Endoscopy with interventional radiology techniques broadens the scope of minimally invasive procedures that can be performed.

Common Veterinary Interventional Radiology Procedures

Interventional Radiology allows us to offer a range of minimally invasive procedures, often providing an alternative to traditional surgery. Here are some of the common IR procedures we perform at Beecroft:

Tracheal Stenting

When the trachea (windpipe) becomes narrowed or obstructed, a stent can be placed to keep the airway open and restore normal breathing.

Ureteral and Urethral Stenting

Similar to tracheal stenting, these procedures involve placing stents within the ureters or urethra to alleviate blockages and ensure the free flow of urine.

Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Treatment

Using IR techniques, we can place coils to redirect blood flow and encourage the closure of abnormal blood vessels.

Drainage of Effusions or Abscesses

Fluid build-up (effusions) in the chest or abdomen, or the formation of abscesses (pus-filled pockets), can be treated with image-guided drainage.

Precise Needle Biopsies

Using imaging guidance, we can perform needle biopsies with exceptional precision, targeting specific areas of concern while minimising your pet's discomfort.

Catheter & Tube Placement

IR techniques are used to place various catheters and tubes, such as feeding tubes, urinary catheters, and drainage catheters.

Joint Injections

For pets suffering from joint pain or arthritis, we can administer targeted medication injections directly into the affected joint using imaging guidance.

Percutaneous Stone Removal

In some cases, bladder or kidney stones can be removed using minimally invasive procedures guided by imaging.

Why Choose Us for Internal Medicine & Endoscopy Services?

Minimally Invasive

IR procedures are less invasive than traditional surgery, which means less pain for your pet and faster recovery times.

Precision

Real-time imaging allows for precise targeting of treatment areas, which improves outcomes and minimises damage to surrounding tissues.

Shorter Hospital Stays

Many IR procedures require shorter hospital stays than traditional surgery.

Reduced Complications

There is reduced risk of complications such as infections and bleeding due to smaller incisions and targeted interventions.

Beecroft is proud to be one of the leading animal hospitals in Singapore, offering IR services. Our team of experienced specialists is committed to providing your pet with the highest-quality care.

Please consult your veterinarian to discuss if an IR technique may be suitable for your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Interventional Radiology

What types of pets can undergo Interventional Radiology?

IR can benefit many pets, including canines, felines, and even some exotic animals. However, the suitability of IR depends on the specific condition and your pet’s overall health. Our team will carefully assess your companion to determine if IR is the right option.

How do MRI scans compare to CT scans in veterinary care?

Both MRI and CT scans provide valuable diagnostic information, but they differ in how they create images. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of soft tissues, while CT uses X-rays to create cross-sectional images of bones and organs. Our veterinary specialists will recommend the most appropriate imaging modality based on your pet’s needs.

How are minimally invasive techniques like IR better than traditional surgery?

Minimally invasive procedures like those offered through IR often involve smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery times compared to traditional surgery. There may also be a reduced risk of complications such as infection and bleeding.

Are there risks involved with IR procedures for pets, and how are they mitigated?

While generally safe, IR procedures do carry some risks, as with any medical intervention. These risks can include bleeding, infection, or complications related to anaesthesia. Our experienced team takes every precaution to minimise these risks by using sterile techniques, advanced imaging guidance, and careful monitoring throughout the procedure.

How does an ultrasound help guide minimally invasive procedures in pets?

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of internal organs. This allows our specialists to visualise the area being treated and guide instruments precisely, ensuring accurate placement and minimising the risk of damage to surrounding tissues.

What conditions can be diagnosed using ultrasound imaging in pets?

Ultrasound is a versatile diagnostic tool that can help identify a wide range of conditions, including:

Abdominal issues: Veterinary abdominal ultrasound can reveal abnormalities in organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, and intestines.
Heart conditions: Echocardiography, a specialised form of ultrasound, assesses heart function and identifies potential problems.
Pregnancy: Ultrasound can confirm pregnancy and monitor foetal development.
Tumours: Ultrasound can help detect and evaluate tumours in various body parts.
Fluid accumulation: Ultrasound can identify abnormal fluid build-up in the chest or abdomen.

Interventional Radiology (IR) for Pets