Digital Radiography

Radiographs, or x-ray studies, use x-rays to create an image of the body. This is the most frequently used form of veterinary imaging. Images are produced by passing x-ray energy through the body. The energy that reaches the other side is detected by a plate and converted into an electronic signal. This information is sent to a computer to create a visible image. Digital radiography does not use film, so it is faster to obtain the images and also makes it easy to share images with other veterinarians. Radiographs are used to diagnose disease in the chest, abdomen, and musculoskeletal system. Contrast studies of the gastrointestinal and urinary tract may also be performed.