Diagnostic Imaging
The provision of an excellent orthopaedic service begins with a careful examination and excellent diagnostic imaging facilities. We have a range of diagnostic imaging modalities available in order to reach an accurate diagnosis which is essential to ensure the optimal treatment is selected. All of our imaging systems produce digital images that allow the pictures to be sent electronically to colleagues across the world.
Radiography
Our first line diagnostic tool is a high definition Konica Minolta Regius 190 CR digital radiography system as installed in many human hospitals worldwide. This machine provides us with excellent images of the very highest quality. We selected this system because of the superior image resolution (47.5 microns) in comparison with most other 'high definition' digital x ray systems that often have a resolution of 100 microns or less.
Computed Tomography (CT)
We are very fortunate to be able to have a GE multi slice CT scanner on site that is available to scan your animal 24 hours a day if necessary. CT is an advanced imaging method that uses x rays to produce multiple thin slices of the body. During the scan the sedated animal is passed through the ring shaped gantry on a motorised table. 
After the scan has been performed the images can be manipulated by powerful computer programs that can restack and recut the slices in any image plane or even produce three dimensional pictures. We principally use CT to helps us to diagnose joint and spinal problems without resulting to invasive exploratory surgery, however the ability to look at three dimensional images is also very useful in planning surgery for complex fractures and limb deformities.
A three dimensional reconstruction of a dogs face taken using our CT scanner
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic resonance Imaging is a state of the art imaging method that uses a strong magnetic field to produce image slices of the body. We work in conjunction with Burgess Diagnostics, the UK leader in mobile advanced imaging for the veterinary market who visit monthly with a 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner. The scanner is housed on the back of an articulated lorry and is run by a skilled radiographer. We prefer MRI for imaging many chronic spinal problems, however it is a very versatile technique that can be used to produce images of any body tissues
Arthroscopy
This involves the examination of joints using a tiny rigid endoscope (typically 2.4mm in diameter) attached to a digital endoscopy camera and video screen. The endoscope is introduced into the joint through one or two tiny incision that is often less than 5mm in length. During surgery the joint is inflated with sterile fluid at a constant pressure. This allows us to examine the joint contents in great detail. Often it is possible to perform arthroscopic surgery to treat certain conditions such as osteochondrosis or elbow dysplasia during the same procedure. Arthroscopic treatment is minimally invasive and can reduce the degree of postoperative pain associated with surgery. The equipment we use is produced by companies including Arthrex, Stryker and Karl Storz, all of whom provide top quality surgery equipment for the human field.