Equipment, Facilities and Services
CT Scanner
Our Milnthorpe branch houses our Computerised Tomography (CT) Scanner wherein 3-D images of the inside of the animal’s body are generated via a non-invasive process involving radiation (X-Rays). From the scan we can determine shape, size, density and texture of animals’ bones and organs. This enables us to formulate the best plan going forward.
Cardiology
Chris Fellows BVMS CertVC MRCVS, Advanced Practitioner visits regularly to perform advanced diagnostics and monitoring of animals with heart and cardiovascular conditions. Heart Murmurs, Arrhythmias, Congenital Cardiovascular Disease, Episodic Collapse and Syncope can be investigated, a treatment plan created and monitored via methods including Electrocardiography (including Holter monitoring) and Echocardiography (including colour Doppler).
Ultrasonography
As well as our own team having additional certifications and access to modern ultrasound equipment, used to assess internal structures and guide sample-collection where required, Vet Practice Support’s Ben Griffin GP Cert (Cardiology) BVetMed MRCVS, Tamara Beatriz Lugo Ferreira GP Cert (Diagnostic Imaging) MRCVS and Roger Wilkinson MA VetMB CertVD CertSAM PgC (Cardiology) MRCVS visit to support our in-house Vets with state-of-the-art equipment and advice.
Radiography (X-Rays)
We have state-of-the-art digital radiography in-house, with all qualified team members trained in safely obtained the best images of bones, joints and internal structures as required. We also offer a free X-Ray interpretation service to our referring Vets; advising first-opinion clinicians of possible diagnoses and treatment options based on images they have presented to our referral team.
Endoscopy (including Bronchoscopy)
Endoscopy involves passing a small camera into body cavities to investigate and potentially take samples. As well as our own team having additional certifications and access to modern equipment, knowledgeable individuals from Vet Practice Support and expert Chris Fellows BVMS CertVC MRCVS visit to support our in-house Vets with state-of-the-art equipment and advice for complex cases.
Arthroscopy and Arthrotomy
Like endoscopy, arthroscopy involves passing a small camera. This time into the joint capsule. Diagnosis and treatment can then be carried out based on what is visualised. Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) and coronoid disease are examples of conditions treated this way.
MRI Scanner
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is used to create an image of both bone and soft tissue within the animal’s body via magnetic fields and radio waves as opposed to radiation. Conditions involving spinal issues, inflammation or infection can all be detected via this diagnostic tool. We have regular visits from the mobile Burgess Diagnostic Unit.
Surgical Suites
Sterile procedures are completed in modern, well-equipped theatres, with separate spaces allocated to conditions for best infection control. We also have an isolated dental suite for oral procedures where modern equipment has been invested in to provide high-quality services. It is important to separate dental and soft tissue and orthopaedic treatment areas to avoid cross-contamination.
Laboratory and Monitoring Equipment
Patients’ blood and urine results, their blood pressure, carbon dioxide and oxygenation levels, temperature, blood, urine and other sample results and more parameters provide useful information when creating a diagnosis and must be monitored for changes whilst the animal undergoes procedures. Our lab is equipped with the most modern machines to provide a comprehensive dataset to the clinician. Our monitoring equipment allows us to track and detect changes rapidly in a patient’s condition. Combining this with our team’s thorough knowledge and wealth of experience, our patients receive the best care possible.
