A Computed Tomography (CT) scan, is a collection of X-rays taken from different angles to produce cross-sectional images offering a clear window into the body. CT patients require general anesthesia because of all the X-rays being taken need to precisely line up for good imaging.

All CT patients (except exotics and neonates) will be required to be fasted for at least 8 hours prior to their appointment.  Not only does this help reduce risks associated with sedation and anesthesia, but this permits better imaging.

This refers to FOOD ONLY. Your pet may continue to have free access to water until their scheduled appointment time.

Unless your primary veterinarian or the veterinarians at AVID direct you to feed your pet prior to arrival (either due to age, species, or possible disease), all patients need to be fasted.

CT studies require general anesthesia. This means all patients will be asleep enough that surgery could take place. This allows for easy and proper placement and adjustments during imaging. 

All patients will receive an individualized anesthetic plan based on their history, current health, any diagnostics performed by your primary veterinarian or elected preoperatively with AVID and the imaging study they are receiving. 

We recommend all patients have preoperative blood work consisting of a complete blood count (CBC), biochemical panel with electrolytes (chemistry), and clotting panel within the last 4 weeks. In addition, patients over 5 years of age are recommended to have a urinalysis prior to anesthesia. And while AVID uses as cardiac-safe medications as possible, pre-operative EKG (electrocardiograph) is also recommended for most patients.

The veterinarians and staff of AVID use state-of-the-art monitoring and anesthesia equipment ensuring all patients receive above-standard-of-care protocols. 

Our standard operating procedure for anesthesia monitoring consists of assessing and recording parameters every 5 minutes including: temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate, oxygen saturation, end tidal CO2, depth of anesthesia and peripheral perfusion. 

All patients will have an IV catheter placed and receive IV fluid therapy during anesthesia and while in recovery. Reversal medications will be used on any patient needing it and recorded in the patients medical record.  Patients also have lubrication placed in their eyes, so their eyes may look shiny when they return home.

All patients will receive heat support to help them maintain their body temperature during anesthesia and in recovery.  

All patients will receive CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation)- both physical and pharmaceutical-  unless otherwise noted by the owner that the patient is to be labeled as DNR (do not resuscitate). 

Most CT scans will require a liquid contrast to be given intravenously. This will be given through the IV catheter placed in your pet.

The contrast is an iodine-based dye that may cause brief side effects with the most common being mild diarrhea. 

Your pet will be at the center for part of the day but will not stay overnight.

Pets are discharged the same day when ready to go home at pre-arranged times.

You can likely expect a quieter pet the evening of the appointment. This is completely normal after any sedation procedure. 

If your pet appears wobbly, please keep away from stairs and leash walk only when outside.

Your pet can have a small amount of food and water later in the evening of the appointment. 

You can give any medications your current veterinarian recommends.

If your pet goes home with a bandage on their leg where their IV catheter was placed, you can remove that in 30 minutes.

Results will be sent directly to your referring veterinarian so they can continue your pet's care and management.