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Two people caring for a small brown dog as it goes through the MRI machine.

Diagnostic Imaging

At Veterinary Surgical Specialists of Orange County

With best-in-class medicine, technology, and an expert team, we’re fully prepared to provide the complete, compassionate care your pet needs.

Your go-to pet imaging center

We are one of the first specialty hospitals to receive an Accredited Referral Practice designation, which means over 900 quality standards of our practice are consistently evaluated by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).

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What is diagnostic and high-resolution imaging for pets?

Diagnostic imaging describes a variety of non-invasive methods of looking inside the body of your cat or dog to help determine the causes of an injury or an illness and to confirm a diagnosis. It can also be used to ascertain how well an animal is responding to treatment.

Each imaging modality is best suited for certain types of diagnoses. For example, an MRI is ideal to examine soft tissue, such as ligament or tendon injuries, spinal cord injuries, or even brain tumors. A CT scan is better suited for bone injuries, thoracic and respiratory imaging, and detecting many cancers.

Knowing which technology to use for a particular condition is the key to making an accurate diagnosis. We will work with your pet’s primary care veterinarian to determine the best diagnostic course of action.

Diagnostics

Comprehensive diagnostic testing allows us to gain a complete understanding of your pet’s condition.

  • Bone Scintigraphy
  • Computed Tomography (CT)
  • Digital X-ray
  • Endoscopy
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Ultrasonography
A vet in blue scrubs examines an MRI of an animal on a monitor.
A vet kneels next to a large cream dog with a wrap on its back and front paw.
A veterinary professional leads a yellow Labrador in a clinic hallway, while another professional stands by a counter.
A veterinary clinic exam room.
Veterinary professionals caring for animals in a clinical setting with medical equipment around them.
Veterinary professionals caring for animals in a clinical setting with medical equipment around them.
Veterinary professionals caring for a fluffy white dog in a clinical setting with medical equipment around them.
Veterinary professional examining the x-ray of a dog torso on a monitor.

We’re here for you (and them)

Schedule a visit. We’re here to help.

We want you and your pet to have the best experience possible. To schedule a surgical consultation, please contact us.

Frequently asked questions

Understand more about your pet’s condition and treatment options.

X-rays often don't require sedation, but ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs typically do require sedation or anesthesia to ensure your pet remains still during the procedure for accurate results.

New patients

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Black and white sketch illustration of a woman with her hair down and a t-shirt on holding a cat.

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