“With unstable patients, the priority is always making sure they’re comfortable first.”
Dr Jennifer Judd BVMS GCertSAUA MANZCVS (Small Animal Radiology)
Accurate, Low Stress Thoracic Assessment
Thoracic ultrasound offers targeted evaluation of the pleural space and mediastinum, helping vets investigate respiratory difficulty, suspected effusion and soft tissue abnormalities. SA Veterinary Sonography brings veterinary thoracic ultrasound directly to your clinic, providing gentle patient handling and timely verbal findings.
While ultrasound cannot fully assess air-filled lung, it is highly effective for identifying pleural fluid, mediastinal changes and lesions near the pleural surface. We work closely with your team to support calm, efficient respiratory case management.
Focused Assessment Of The Thorax
Thoracic ultrasound is particularly useful when radiographs show an abnormal silhouette or when respiratory signs require rapid clarification. It can detect pleural fluid, assess the mediastinum and identify soft tissue structures that are not obscured by gas.
For patients presenting with coughing, increased effort or compromised breathing, ultrasound provides immediate clinical context and helps determine whether stabilisation, thoracocentesis or further imaging is warranted. This targeted view complements radiographs and supports confident, stepwise decision making.
Benefits of Mobile Thoracic Ultrasound
Mobile thoracic imaging is especially valuable for patients who should not be transported due to respiratory compromise. Performing ultrasound within your clinic limits handling, avoids unnecessary movement and allows stabilisation to continue uninterrupted.
Verbal findings given during the visit assist with planning drainage, oxygen therapy or escalating to radiographs or CT when needed. For SA vets managing respiratory cases, in-clinic ultrasound offers practical, accessible support while the patient remains safely under your care.
Support For Dyspnoeic And Fragile Patients
Cats in respiratory distress are extremely fragile and require stabilisation before any full thoracic assessment. Initial POCUS for dyspnoeic cats can be performed in sternal recumbency to check for pleural effusion without excessive handling. Once the patient is oxygenating comfortably and stress levels are reduced, a more complete examination can be safely performed.
For painful or anxious dogs, mild sedation may be considered to reduce movement and improve image quality. Our careful, safety focused approach supports confident, timely decisions.
If you would like to arrange a thoracic ultrasound or discuss a respiratory case, please get in touch.
Mobile Veterinary Ultrasound Services
Advanced in-clinic ultrasound for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, delivered through abdominal, thoracic, cardiac and reproductive imaging.
Abdominal
Comprehensive abdominal imaging assessing organs, effusion, masses, inflammation, and gastrointestinal changes.
Thoracic
Targeted thoracic ultrasound evaluating pleural effusion, lung changes, and masses, ideal for unstable or dyspneic patients.
Echocardiogram
Detailed cardiac imaging assessing structure, chamber size, function, and mitral valve disease staging for informed treatment.
Reproductive
Focused urogenital imaging assessing pregnancy, pyometra, prostatic changes, urinary tract issues, and suspected bladder stones.
Abdominal
Comprehensive abdominal imaging assessing organs, effusion, masses, inflammation, and gastrointestinal changes.
Thoracic
Targeted thoracic ultrasound evaluating pleural effusion, lung changes, and masses, ideal for unstable or dyspneic patients.
Echocardiogram
Detailed cardiac imaging assessing structure, chamber size, function, and mitral valve disease staging for informed treatment.
Reproductive
Focused urogenital imaging assessing pregnancy, pyometra, prostatic changes, urinary tract issues, and suspected bladder stones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We’re here to support you. Below are answers to common queries about our veterinary ultrasound services.
What can thoracic ultrasound assess that radiographs cannot?
Thoracic ultrasound is highly sensitive for detecting pleural effusion, mediastinal masses and pleural surface abnormalities. It provides real time information that complements radiographs and supports clinical planning for SA vets.
Can thoracic ultrasound diagnose lung disease directly?
Ultrasound cannot visualise gas filled lung in detail, but it can identify pleural irregularities, consolidation near the pleural surface and secondary signs of respiratory disease. Radiographs remain essential for full lung assessment.
How useful is ultrasound for dyspnoeic cats?
Initial POCUS for dyspnoeic cats can identify pleural effusion quickly with minimal handling. A full thoracic ultrasound is only performed once the patient is stable enough to tolerate it safely. Stabilisation always comes first.
Do patients require sedation for thoracic ultrasound?
Many patients tolerate the procedure without sedation. Mild sedation may be considered for anxious, painful or highly reactive patients to reduce stress and improve image quality. Sedation choices are tailored to each case.
When should I choose CT instead of thoracic ultrasound?
CT offers superior evaluation of lung parenchyma, metastatic disease and complex mediastinal structures. It is recommended when deeper thoracic assessment is required or when radiographs and ultrasound do not provide sufficient detail.
How quickly will I receive results of a thoracic ultrasound?
We provide same day verbal findings and a detailed written report within 24 to 48 hours, supporting timely respiratory care for clinics across Adelaide and regional SA.