The ultrasound

Ultrasound is a medical imaging technique that uses inaudible sound waves to visualise the inside of the body.

The ultrasound system consists of a probe that emits and receives ultrasound (called a transducer) and a video monitor. The frequency at which the ultrasonic signal is emitted depends on the depth of the organs within the body and the areas to be assessed.

It is painless and non-invasive, and it is widely used not only for diagnosing many medical situations but also for visual guidance in other examinations, such as biopsies.

Ultrasound is used for many indications because it can be performed on any body part : heart, kidney, pelvis, blood vessels, brain (newborns' brain can be scanned through fontanel), prostate, thyroid, eye, and orbit.

The technique involves exposing the tissues or organs you want to observe to ultrasound waves. These waves "bounce" off the different structures according to their density and return to the probe, which interprets them and renders an image in real time on a screen.

The examination is painless. The veterinarian first applies a gel between the skin and the probe to ensure the excellent conductivity of the ultrasound by eliminating the air (which may also justify shaving) and gently moves the probe to the area to explore.

Ultrasound is one of medicine's most frequently used exams, easy to perform and painless.  It helps to look for abnormal tissues such as malformations, tumours, or cysts. It also guides the veterinarian visually when performing biopsies or other examinations.

MadeleinVet uses ultrasound techniques to examine the abdomen, eye, and orbit.

We call an experienced and competent external practitioner to the site for more specific cardiac ultrasound scans.