Echocardiography in pets

Echocardiography in pets is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses ultrasound to evaluate
the structure and function of the heart. It is a vital diagnostic tool in veterinary cardiology for
assessing heart disease in dogs and cats.

What is Echocardiography?
– It provides real-time images of the heart’s chambers, valves, wall motion, and blood flow.
– It helps identify structural abnormalities, chamber sizes, valve function, and cardiac output.

Indications for Echocardiography in Pets
– Detection of heart murmurs or abnormal sounds
– Evaluation of arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms
– Suspected cardiomyopathy, dilated or hypertrophic heart disease
– Heart failure assessment
– Congenital heart defects
– Monitoring of known heart disease progression
– Investigation of syncope or exercise intolerance
Procedure Overview
– Performed under sedation or light anesthesia to minimize movement
– The pet is positioned on its side or back
– A transducer (ultrasound probe) is placed on the chest (thoracic window after shaving)
– Images are obtained of the heart in multiple views (e.g., right and left parasternal views)
– Doppler ultrasound assesses blood flow, valve function, and pressure gradients

Advantages of Echocardiography
– Provides detailed anatomical and functional information
– Non-invasive and safe
– Guides treatment decisions and prognosis
– Detects subclinical disease before clinical signs appear

Limitations**
– Requires specialized equipment and training
– Some animals may need sedation or anesthesia
– Image quality depends on operator skill and pet cooperation

Common Findings in Cardiac Disease
– Chamber enlargement (dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy)

– Valve regurgitation or stenosis
– Abnormal septal or wall motion
– Pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart)
– Thrombi or masses

Summary
Echocardiography is a cornerstone diagnostic tool in veterinary cardiology, providing critical
information for diagnosing, managing, and monitoring heart disease in pets.
Please call us at Gateway veterinary Centre for Next availability for Echo.