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Can You Use a Human Ultrasound Machine on a Dog?

Posted by National Veterinary Equipment on 4th May 2023

Can You Use a Human Ultrasound Machine on a Dog?

Regarding veterinary care, dogs are similar to humans regarding access to the latest diagnostic tools. Ultrasound scanning is one of those tools that can help identify potential health issues in our canine friends. You may ask if you can use a human ultrasound machine on a dog and during which circumstances. We can provide the answers.

While human ultrasound machines can examine and diagnose canine patients, consider a few factors before deciding which type of device would give the best image quality and result. We will explore these considerations and discuss why specialized canine ultrasound machines could be beneficial in some instances.

Benefits And Tradeoffs Of Using A Human Ultrasound Machine On A Dog

The main benefit of using a human ultrasound machine on a dog is cost savings. Human devices are typically more affordable than those specifically designed for canines. Some clinics on a budget or offering healthcare for charity work can benefit from it.

Image Quality & Performance

First, image quality on a canine patient may be better than if performed on a human machine specifically designed for veterinary use. Canine anatomy can vary from humans in size and shape, so a specialized canine machine may be more accurate at providing a clearer image.

Tissue Differentiation

In addition, human machines can often have difficulty distinguishing between different tissues and organs in small animals such as dogs. A specialist canine ultrasound machine would be able to differentiate these tissues more accurately, giving the veterinarian more detailed information about their patient’s condition.

Transducer Sizes And Shapes

Human machines require specialized transducers to get the best images from canine patients due to their size difference from humans. The transducers used on a canine machine would be more suitable to the anatomy of a dog.

Specialty Procedures & Conditions

Finally, specialized canine ultrasound machines are better equipped to handle cases that require diagnostic imaging of specific organs or conditions. For example, cardiac and abdominal ultrasounds can be done using human-grade equipment, but they may not be as accurate as those done on a specialized machine.

In cases such as bladder stone imaging or abdominal tumors, canine machines can offer a more detailed image that may help the veterinarian reach a diagnosis quicker and more accurately.

How About Diagnosing Genetic Disorders?

Conditions like hip dysplasia or twisted spleens require constant observation to determine when surgeons need to intervene with procedures. A specialized canine ultrasound machine may be the best choice for genetic disorders as it offers better resolution and detail than a human machine. Specialized software used in these machines allows for more accurate diagnosing of genetic diseases.

Invest In Ultrasound Scanning From National Veterinary Equipment

National Veterinary Equipment has all the scanning tools you need for your patients—we retail machines from the top medical brands and companies focusing on animal care. You can invest in high-quality veterinary expertise.

To learn more about how to use different portable ultrasound machines for your patients, please get in touch with us today. Let National Veterinary Equipment make recommendations for your clinic or animal hospital.

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