CARDIOLOGY

with Temple End

In 2023 we were very proud to open our latest branch, a fully equipped hospital in Stokenchurch. This purpose-built facility has exceptional equipment and we are able to offer a very high level of expertise and experience to treat more complex cases. We are not a specialist-led referral centre but we are able to offer very advanced treatments and procedures which are not often available from first-opinion vets, often at a considerably lower price than a specialist centre would charge .

Heart assessment

When we listen to a pet’s chest with a stethoscope in a routine consultation we can often hear that there is a problem present but it is often not possible to evaluate how severe the problem might be or what needs to be done. We would normally suggest an appointment with Nicky at Stokenchurch to have the heart fully assessed with an ultrasound scan, ECG and, sometimes, an x-ray. If we detect a problem early and start medication at the right time then we can extend a pet’s life expectancy dramatically so it is a very valuable tool which we’re delighted to be able to offer here.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound scan is a way of us being able to see inside the body and visualise the internal structure of the heart and surrounding blood vessels and look for any abnormal changes that might be there. Our ultrasound machine is a top-of-the-range model specifically chosen for its ability to provide the best possible images of the heart. It enables us to find the source of the problem, determine its severity and advise on the best treatment plan. Nearly every heart patient will benefit from having an ultrasound scan to visualise the physical changes going on.

ECG

Sometimes, rather than there being a structural problem causing a heart issue, there is a problem with the electrical control systems of the heart. We use an electrocardiogram (ECG) to diagnose these problems. Many patients have a combination of a structural problem and electrical problem and so it is often best to have both tests performed.

X-ray

X-rays of the chest can sometimes give extra information about the heart but more often these days they are used to look at the state of the lungs and diagnose respiratory problems. The best x-rays are taken when a pet is fully asleep under a general anaesthetic so this test is sometimes performed separately from the other procedures.

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Consultations

Nicky sees her heart patients at the Stokenchurch hospital. She will have a consultation first with the owners and carefully listen to the pet’s chest again. Then she’ll take her patient through to have the ultrasound scan. Many pets are happy to have the scan performed while they are fully awake. It is not painful at all but they do have to lie still for a reasonable amount of time so many pets need to have a mild sedation in order to obtain the best images, especially if they’re fidgety. A patch of fur needs to be clipped from their chest on both sides to allow a good contact between the ultrasound probe and the skin. Scans normally take around 40 minutes to perform, with a change of side and a break halfway through. The ECG will normally take about ten minutes.

Nicky will generally sit down with the owners straight away to discuss her findings and make a plan with them for her recommended treatment and future checks. Countless animals have led longer, happier lives because they were diagnosed and helped in good time.

The cost of having a consultation, ultrasound and ECG with Nicky is £410 (£460 if they need sedation).

Please contact the surgery on 01494 413333 to make an appointment.