• You, the pet owner, are the ultimate beneficiary of this consultation service. Our initial teleimaging resource can be of immediate assistance with regard to your pet's problems. It is not possible for radiologists to be available on a widespread basis in practices to offer advice regarding the interpretation of highly complex diagnostic images. This web portal brings over 40 man-years of image interpretation expertise to private practitioners and other veterinary specialists throughout the world.


  • This consultation service is based on the flexibility associated with the electronic transformation of information. The transition of veterinary medical imaging from an x-ray film format to an electronic format makes getting an expert opinion as easy as logging onto our web site. As more and more veterinary practices make the transition to digital imaging, more pet owners will reap the advantage of having specialists "read" the images for their pet.


  • The old x-ray film technology was inefficient and expensive for veterinarians to provide at the highest level. With digital imaging, image quality is improved and ability to manipulate images after obtaining them provides even more flexibility and potential for increased accuracy. Problems obtaining optimal medical images of animal patients are greatly reduced with this exciting new technology. Immediately after an image is "made" it is available for assessment and, if needed, transfer to a specialist for evaluation.


  • Computed tomography, or CAT scanning, is becoming more available in private veterinary practices. In this technology, thin "slice" x-ray images are generated. These "slice" images make interpretation of complex 3-dimensional anatomy, like the skull and chest, much easier. Computed tomography scanning has revolutionized the diagnosis of many musculoskeletal, thoracic and abdominal problems in animals. Indications for use include:
    • Assessment of complex bone and soft tissue injuries
    • Assessment of elbow diseases
    • Assessment of masses or tumors for which surgical removal and/or radiation therapy is being considered
    • Assessment of the cause of nasal discharge


  • Magnetic resonance imaging, MRI, is an exciting technology that is also becoming more available in veterinary medicine. Magnetic resonance images, produced by the interaction of a very strong magnetic field with the body's hydrogen atoms, are characterized by exquisite ability to differentiate between normal and abnormal tissues at a level not really possible with any other imaging modality. The main indications for use include:
    • Assessment of brain and spinal cord disease
    • Assessment of nasal and retrobulbar derangements
    • Assessment of obscure lameness


  • Diagnostic Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to generate a sectional image and like radiology is used extensively as one of the first imaging modalities in the assessment many chest and abdominal disorders. Many practices have access to this technology either via a mobile ultrasound service or having the machine in-house. The primary indications for diagnostic ultrasound in small animal practice include:
    • Assessment of cardiac disorders
    • Assessment of many abdominal disorders including the liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, urinary tract - including pregnancy and masses and gastrointestinal problems.
    • Ocular and retrobulbar abnormalities
    • Some muscle and joint abnormalities
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Email: telemedvet@ncsu.edu | Telephone: 919.513.6590 | Fax: 919.513.6716

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